Overarching being great at lacrosse and education, our team is made up of great people.
Who We Are
John Grant Jr.
Director of Lacrosse & Head Coach
John is a Hall of Fame professional lacrosse player who has played in Major League Lacrosse, the National Lacrosse League, and the Ontario Lacrosse Association. He currently serves as an assistant coach for Redwoods Lacrosse Club of the Premier Lacrosse League and as Head Coach and Director of Lacrosse for the Vandermont Academy. For the NLL, he holds several franchise records, including most goals (347) and most points (719). He has the all-time leading scorer record in MLL history inching out Paul Rabil by just one goal for 572 career regular-season goals. Vandermont is honored to be working with the real G.O.A.T. who would never admit it but instead focuses on the value of character, grit, and hard work in all he does.
Jeremy Thompson
Director of Development & Assistant Coach
Jeremy, one of four brothers who all play professional lacrosse, is a Haudenosaunee lacrosse player from the Hawk Clan of the Onondaga Confederacy of the Six Nations of the Grand River. He has quite a lacrosse resume and currently plays for the Georgia Swarm of the National Lacrosse League. He played for Atlas of the Premier Lacrosse League, was a two-time Junior College Lacrosse National Champion, and was 2nd-team All-American at Syracuse University. Jeremy is also a member of the Iroquois men's national lacrosse team with his brothers. Jeremy is a true leader in all aspects of his life, rooted in his spirituality and seeing the good in everything around him. He is well respected and brings joy and inspiration to those in his path.
Dr. Tiffany Nayar
Dean of Online Academics
Dr. Tiffany Nayar is a passionate and accomplished leader in education, boasting a proven track record of instructional excellence. With a Doctorate in Organizational Leadership and a Master's in Administration, she brings a wealth of experience working with students at different academic levels. Her expertise of over 25 years includes extensive work in online education. Additionally, Dr. Nayar has firsthand knowledge of college athletics, understanding the unique path and expectations of student-athletes aspiring to play in college. She is committed to providing comprehensive support, ensuring students excel academically and pave their way toward successful college opportunities.
She will surely keep you laughing and looks after all our athletes as her own.
Carrie Koch
Head of School
Mrs. Koch joins Vandermont as a seasoned educator with over 20 years of experience in public, private, charter, and Montessori schools. Carrie holds a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics and Psychology from North Central College, a Master’s of Science in the Teaching of Mathematics from the University of Illinois, and is currently finalizing her Ph.D. in Educational Leadership, Equity, and Transformation at Colorado State University.
Mrs. Koch has a passion for innovative and personalized education within a Christian environment. Carrie demonstrates a sincere and enthusiastic commitment to providing students with authentic learning experiences using multiple learning pathways tailored to each student’s strengths, passions, and interests. She will always greet you with a smile, has a servant's heart, and will holds a deep responsibility to do God's work.
Bill "Fitzy" Fitzpatrick
Director of National & International Recruitment & Assistant Coach
He's Canada's son, but we also claim him as one of our own. His resume is so long and he is the first one to offer help in any situation. Having worked with countless youth in lacrosse, he invests deeply with others with his time and efforts and shares his wisdom with those fortunate enough to know him. We couldn't do what we do without our entire team, and he is an integral part. He is our Director of National and International Recruiting and a coach and mentor to our incredible group of young men. We are thankful he calls Vandermont home!