FORK UNION, VA — Fork Union Military Academy is proud to announce the appointment of Patrick Blake as the Academy's new head varsity lacrosse coach for the 2026-2027 school year.
 

"We are excited to welcome Patrick Blake to our coaching staff," said Director of Athletics Winston Brown. "Patrick brings a wealth of experience and knowledge of the game, and we look forward to seeing the impact he will make on our lacrosse program and on our cadets."
 

Blake brings a strong background in athletic operations, coaching, leadership and mentorship, along with a deep understanding of student-athlete development and team culture.
 

A graduate of James Madison University with a bachelor's degree in sports and recreation management and a minor in business, Blake most recently served as associate athletic director for operations at St. Anne's-Belfield School, where he oversaw athletic logistics, transportation, equipment management and game operations while also serving as an assistant coach in football and basketball.
 

Before his administrative leadership role at St. Anne's-Belfield, Blake served as sports director at the Brooks Family YMCA, where he managed youth sports programming, staffing, budgeting and community partnerships.
 

In addition to his athletic experience, Blake currently serves in the Virginia Army National Guard as an infantryman, where he has developed leadership skills through mission planning, operational execution and international deployment experience.
 

"I am truly honored to be selected as the next head lacrosse coach at Fork Union Military Academy," Blake said. "I look forward to growing the program and building on the progress made over the last two seasons. In addition to stepping into a role within the residential life program, this is a great opportunity for me to make a lasting impact on the young men here at Fork Union.
 

"I would like to thank Coach Mike Tyrrell and Coach Tom Gaeth for their leadership over the past two seasons, CAPT Mark Black, and John Blake for his leadership and mentorship. I can't wait to get started. Go FUMA!"
 

Blake will begin his new role ahead of the 2026-2027 academic year.

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