HARRISONBURG, Va. (JMU Athletics) – James Madison Director of Athletics Matt Roan announced that lacrosse head coach Shelley Klaes has received an extension to keep her under contract through the 2032 season.
In her 20 seasons at the helm, Klaes has led JMU to a 259-111 (.700) overall record, nine conference championships, 13 NCAA tournament berths, and a national championship.
“Shelley Klaes has set a high standard for success leading James Madison lacrosse, and we’re excited to see that continue with this extension,” Roan said. “Coming off the program’s second straight American Conference title and its 11th consecutive NCAA appearance, we’re confident that JMU is poised for even more success moving forward. Shelley has coached All-Americans and conference players of the year and continues to reload and develop elite talent. She is one of our longest-tenured coaches at JMU and embodies our standards for culture and competitive excellence. We’re thrilled to maintain that success under her leadership for another six years.”
“It is an exciting time for JMU athletics as we continue to grow our visibility and reputation under Matt Roan and President Jim’s bold leadership,” said Klaes. “Our momentum as a university and athletic department is being recognized across the country as we are building a National Brand.”
This past season, Klaes and the Dukes claimed their second consecutive American Conference tournament title, finishing the season with a 14-7 record and advancing to the second round of the NCAA Championship.
In 2026, eight Dukes earned All-Conference honors, including senior Olivia Rongo, who captured the American’s Defensive Player of the Year award. JMU ranked top 25 nationally in three categories, including seventh in caused turnovers per game (11.76), 11th in ground balls per game (18.57), and 21st in assists per game (7.29).
Throughout her career, Klaes has won eight conference coach of the year awards, earning National Coach of the Year honors in 2010 and 2018. In 25 seasons as a head coach between JMU and Hofstra, Klaes has coached 12 Tewaaraton nominees, 34 All-Americans, and 44 All-Region selections.
“It is clear that JMU’s athletic success is a factor in our national surge,” added Klaes. “I am honored to continue to lead our lacrosse program in our championship culture as we strive to be the top dog in the American Conference.”
— JMU Athletics —
