Joe Smith joined the Canisius men’s lacrosse program as a volunteer assistant coach in 2018 and transitioned into his new role as volunteer video coordinator in the fall of 2019.
In his position as volunteer video coordinator, Smith will assist the Canisius coaching staff with the breakdown of video and development of scouting reports. Smith also serves as an assistant coach/defensive coordinator with the National Lacrosse League's New York Riptide, reuniting with former teammate and Riptide Head Coach/General Manager Regy Thorpe.
In his two seasons with the Golden Griffins, Smith has helped the squad to 16 wins and back-to-back appearances in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Men’s Lacrosse Championship, highlighted by the program’s third MAAC title in 2018.
Prior to joining the Canisius staff, Smith spent the previous seven seasons as the varsity head coach at nearby Canisius High School. During his time with the Crusaders, Smith guided the program to the Monsignor Martin championship in 2015 and runner-up finishes in each of the past two seasons. He also coached a pair of high school All-Americans while at Canisius.
Smith was a four-year letterwinner at Towson (2000-04), recording 83 ground balls in 50 games as a close defenseman. He helped guide the Tigers to Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) titles in 2003 and 2004. During his freshman season, Smith and the Tigers claimed the America East Conference championship and reached the NCAA Tournament Semifinals.
Upon graduations Smith played professionally in both Major League Lacrosse and the National Lacrosse League. In six seasons in the NLL, Smith was a member of championship squads with the Rochester Knighthawks (2007) and Buffalo Bandits (2008) and also spent time with the Philadelphia Wings.
In 10 seasons in the MLL, Smith helped the Rochester Rattlers claim the Steinfeld Cup in 2008. He also played with the Chicago Machine, Denver Outlaws and Ohio Machine during his career.
Smith also appeared in the 2011 and 2015 FIL World Indoor Lacrosse Championships for the United States, helping the Red, White and Blue to a pair of third-place finishes.
A native of Orchard Park, N.Y., Smith received his master’s degree in physical education and health education from Canisius.
