RABUN GAP, Ga. — Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School has tapped veteran coach Josh Schwartz to lead its boys lacrosse program, bringing in a coach with collegiate recruiting experience and strong track record of winning. Schwartz succeeds Ryne Linsley following a nationwide search. He also will serve in the school’s athletic office.
Schwartz has coached at the NCAA Division II and Division III levels, most recently as associate head lacrosse coach and recruiting coordinator at Catawba College, where he helped the program earn multiple wins over nationally ranked Top 20 opponents.
His coaching résumé also includes stops at Coker College, Young Harris College and Greensboro College, along with elite club programs Team 91 South and Team Carolina in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Most recently, Schwartz served as a learning resource instructor, dorm parent and assistant lacrosse coach at Christ School in Arden, North Carolina, where he helped the team capture the 2025 NCISAA state championship.
Head of School Robert Ahrens said Schwartz’s commitment to developing student-athletes made him the right choice for the position.
“At Rabun Gap, we strive to nurture the whole student, and Coach Schwartz embodies that exact philosophy,” Ahrens said. “He is not only a proven, championship-level coach, but an exceptional mentor who understands how to build character and leadership through athletics.”
Interim Athletic Director JC Gonzalez said Schwartz is well-positioned to build on the program’s tradition while preparing players for the next level.
“We wanted a leader who could honor the legacy Coach Ryne Linsley built here while injecting a fresh, high-level vision for the future,” Gonzalez said. “Coach Schwartz knows exactly what it takes to develop players for the next level. He is a championship-caliber coach and a perfect fit for Rabun Gap.”
Schwartz said he looks forward to continuing the program’s success.
“I am incredibly honored to join the Rabun Gap-Nacoochee School community and lead the boys lacrosse program,” Schwartz said. “My goal is to create a culture where student-athletes are challenged, supported, and taught to pursue excellence with purpose. I look forward to working with these talented young men to continue a tradition of excellence, both on the field and in the classroom.”
Schwartz earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Mount Olive and a master’s degree in college athletics administration from Coker University. He is completing a Master of Education in school, clinical and mental health psychology at the University of Missouri with a focus on positive coaching and athletic leadership.
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