Caitlin Jackson Brings New Attitude and Hard Work to Wilton Girls Lacrosse

The Wilton girls lacrosse program has a new face, as Caitlin Jackson is beginning her first season as the Warriors' coach.

A Norwell, Massachusetts native and former UConn women’s assistant, Jackson takes over for Cindy Wiseman and Ciara Thurlow, who stepped down as co-coaches in September, citing a desire to spend more time with their families.

Jackson will have a tough act to follow, as Wiseman and Thurlow posted a career record of 141-30-3 in eight years, including an FCIAC championship last season.

In the FCIAC semifinals, the Warriors defeated Darien, 17-16 in a triple-overtime classic, then downed Darien in the final to capture their first FCIAC crown in five years.

However, Jackson is used to success, having won four NCAA national titles as a player at Northwestern.  Jackson also has coached at the youth, high school and club levels.

The transition at Wilton has been easier than one might expect with a new coaching staff as Jackson credits Wiseman and Thurlow for the knowledge and majority level of the players.

“I get more with these girls,” Jackson said.  "They need to be willing to work."

Jackson will be assisted by Merri Adamicki Meyran, the former coach at Los Alamitos High School, the two time California International Federation champions.

A two time All-American and former graduate assistant at Towson University, Meyran was named  the Orange County Coach of the Year in 2009 and 2010. Los Alamitos went undefeated each season.

Meyran also was on the United States 2001-2002 developmental team before moving to California, where she started and ran youth programs in Orange County for a few years.

She then rapidly built the girls lacrosse program at Los Alamitos to national recognition. In four seasons, she posted a record of 61-7-1, including 41-0 the last two seasons.

Both coaches are employees at New Lax Lacrosse in Manhattan New York, where they serve as co-directors. Meyran also helps with player development.

“I came to Wilton High School for the opportunity to work with great student-athletes who are dedicated to lacrosse,” Meyran said. “Caitlin and I are focused on taking this very young team to the next level."

Wilton, which graduated 10 seniors, opens its new era on Wednesday at Norwalk (7 p.m.)

“I’m really just excited for the opportunity to be working with the Wilton girls,” Meyran said. 

“Our goals as a coaching staff are to make an impact quickly and guide this team as far into the post season as possible. I’m passionate about lacrosse and I love being out there every day.”