MOSCOW, Idaho -- The University of Idaho men’s lacrosse program announced Colton Raichl as its new head coach on Tuesday. Raichl was a four-year starting attackman for the Vandals from 2012-15.

During his collegiate playing tenure, Raichl was a three-time team Offensive Player of the Year for the Vandals, a three-time all-conference selection and the program's all-time leader in goals scored. He was the team president from 2013-15 and a captain in 2015.

"It is truly exciting to see one of our own rise to this position -- someone who has a deep understanding and passion for the club, the school and the community,” said Idaho lacrosse board chairman Dan Spangler. “Colton's knowledge of the game and his experience with the best history of our program will secure steady growth for us going forward and will ensure that it will be a fun experience for players, parents and fans.”

During and after his accomplished playing career, Colton worked with youth camps throughout the Northwest and the country establishing a strong foundation for recruiting and player development.

"I would like to thank the entire University of Idaho men's lacrosse club, their board of directors, as well as university leaders Cezar Mesquita and Butch Fealy," Raichl said. "I am truly thankful for being chosen for this incredible opportunity. The chance to represent the University of Idaho, my alma mater, on and off the lacrosse field is something I look forward to. I plan to bring this team back to its full potential of being a playoff team in the PNCLL by providing the stability at the head coaching position necessary to do so.

"I have been incredibly loyal to this University during my own academic and athletic career, and I plan to continue that through my passion for coaching. The Vandals will be a force to be reckoned with in the very near future. Be brave and bold. Go Vandals!”

The University of Idaho Vandal men’s lacrosse program competes in the Pacific Northwest Collegiate Lacrosse League's Division I conference. With the addition of Raichl, the Vandals are looking to continue their growth and on-field success in the coming season and beyond.