Jane Karger is in her sixth season as the head coach of the Drew University women's lacrosse team in 2020-21. She has guided the Rangers to four consecutive appearances in the Landmark Conference Championships and two ECAC Division III tournament berths, including a run to the championship game in 2019. She has also coached 12 All-Landmark Conference performers and two IWLCA All-Region recipients.

Q: Despite the ongoing pandemic, how has your team been able to stay sharp this semester?
Karger: We have been having upperclassmen based practices every weekend since the semester began and we have been working to stay connected as a team. We have been having been working to connect virtually as well as some non-contact with practices recently.
 
Q: Your team went 3-1 in its abbreviated 2020 season and finished 16-5 in 2019, tying the program record for victories. What are some of the factors that have led to the Rangers' recent success?
Karger: We have been focusing on getting better every day and really working to play more as a team on the field and working on the details off of the field. We have some incredibly dedicated and passionate players on our roster who have worked very hard to play at a high level. They are constantly working to get better both individually and hold each other to that higher standard every year. I'm really proud of our players!
 
Q: What have been some of your top memories during your coaching career at Drew thus far?
Karger: Pretty much any memory of us being together as a team has been some of my top memories. However a few specific ones stand out. We had an overtime win against Kean in 2019 and seeing every member of the team step up and contribute to a tough battle with a good team was amazing to see and be a part of. As the years of have gone on, seeing each player continue to believe more and more in themselves and the team and compete with the top teams in the conference has been amazing as well.
 
Q: What qualities do you look for in a prospective student-athlete?
Karger: I really look for the intangible aspects of a prospective student-athlete. Are they coachable, are they good people, will they fit in with the team are all things we consider. We also are looking for those players who want to continuously get better and push those around them. We want competitive athletes and those who will work extremely hard! Q: What do you feel makes Drew a special place?
Karger: The community at Drew is one of the most special aspects. Every single person on campus is there to make sure that every other person is supported and pushed. We have an immense pride in our community and we all work to contribute to helping each student, faculty and staff. Also, fall colors are my favorite and no where has them better than The Forest!
 
Q: You were a standout Division I goalie at Mount St. Mary's University. What lessons did you take away from your playing days that have stuck with you as a coach?
Karger: I always remember my head coach, Denise Wescott, pushing us to put in the work off of the field and learn the game at a higher level. She had a true passion for teaching the game and giving back. I love teaching the game and paying an attention to the details. I love thinking outside of the box and coming up with the most effective way to get the most out of our players' experiences. She definitely taught me that and I appreciate it every day. 
 
Q: Who have been some of the biggest influences in your career?
Karger: I have had some incredible mentors and support systems throughout my coaching career. I have been fortunate enough to be able to learn from so many people and be a part of a lot of amazing programs. My former head coach, Denise Wescott, is an amazing and supportive mentor. Katie Woods, head coach at the University of Connecticut and Drew alum, is one of the reasons that I even found the opportunity here and I am so grateful for her and her guidance. Chris Sailer at Princeton University has also been a great mentor and teacher of the profession and the game. There are so many friends who I have leaned on in the last several years that I can't even begin to thank or list them.
 
Q: If you weren't coaching, what would you be doing?
Karger: If I weren't coaching, I'd be a photojournalist traveling the world. Working for the Hong Kong lacrosse program has afforded me the opportunity to travel and experience the world through lacrosse and there are so many amazing places out there!  

Quick Hits
Favorite Color: Blue
Food: Mexican
Restaurant: Yaya Noodle
Movie: Miracle
TV Show: Grey's Anatomy or Holiday Baking Championship
Musical Artist: Zac Brown Band
Athlete: Julie Foudy
Pro Team: Pittsburgh Steelers
Hobbies: Walking/playing with my dogs, hiking, photography and traveling
Most Prized Possession: My team-signed Hong Kong flag from my first World Cup