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Date: 8/3/2021
WEST SPRINGFIELD – Dannie Gryszko, West Springfield’s Varsity Lacrosse Coach and Connecticut Valley Lacrosse Coach was recently named USA Lacrosse’s Coach of the Year for Western Massachusetts.
Gryszko explained that he was voted in by other coaches during a meeting with the entire league. At the time of the meeting, Gryszko was coaching West Side’s final game against Northampton so he was unable to attend. It wasn’t until the next morning that he received wind of the exciting news.
“It’s an honor; it’s awesome,” said Gryszko.
This year was Gryszko’s second year as head varsity lacrosse coach of West Springfield High School, however, Gryszko said this year was pretty much his first since COVID-19 canceled his 2020 coaching season.
Additionally, Gryszko recently completed his first year as the Connecticut Valley lacrosse coach – a summer league where he mentored the 2022 Class Double A team.
Outside of coaching, Gryszko works as a school resource officer at the Collaborative School on Brush Hill. He also works the day shift at the West Springfield Police Department. Prior to this, Gryszko was on the midnight shift for patrol.
Gryszko played college lacrosse at American International College (AIC) from 2010 to 2015. Before being promoted to varsity head coach at West Springfield High School, he served as an assistant coach here for five years.
“I give credit to the kids,” said Gryszko. “It was a team effort and they all had my back.”
He continued, “I thank my senior class – I had them for an entire year and we got through this season. They stood behind me and got to this position of success.”
Gryszko recognized his team for their commitment and dedication throughout the 2021 season. He claimed that more than 80 percent of the team made the Dean's List for the Spring semester and made it through one of the most challenging years.