The lacrosse community is mourning the loss of Natalie Wills, a respected coach, former collegiate standout, and dedicated advocate for the sport, who passed away at the age of 36 after a courageous battle with breast cancer. Wills died on Friday at the Sidney Kimmel Comprehensive Cancer Center at Johns Hopkins Hospital, leaving behind a legacy defined by leadership, mentorship, and an unwavering passion for developing the next generation of athletes.
Natalie’s journey in lacrosse began long before her collegiate career. A graduate of St. Mary’s High School’s Class of 2008 and a member of the school’s prestigious 13 Year Club, she distinguished herself as one of the program’s standout players. Her exceptional talent earned her Most Valuable Player honors, while her commitment to teamwork and sportsmanship made her a respected leader among teammates and coaches alike.
She continued her athletic career at Vanderbilt University, where she became a four-year starter for the Commodores. Beyond her accomplishments on the field, Natalie embraced campus leadership, serving as president of COSA during her senior year. Those who knew her at Vanderbilt remember her as a student-athlete whose determination, compassion, and integrity left a lasting impression on the university community.
Following graduation, Wills devoted her professional life to coaching and advancing the sport she loved. She held coaching positions at Boston University and the University of Maryland before becoming an influential contributor to USA Lacrosse’s National Team Development Program. Most recently, she coached at McDonogh School, where she became known not only for developing talented players but also for mentoring young people with patience, encouragement, and genuine care.
Her influence extended beyond the sidelines through her service on the board of the Greater Baltimore Lacrosse Foundation. As a board member, Natalie worked tirelessly to expand opportunities within the sport and strengthen lacrosse programs throughout the region. In recognition of her lifelong dedication, she received the Greater Baltimore Lacrosse Foundation’s Love of the Game Award in January 2026, an honor celebrating her extraordinary impact on the sport and its community.
Colleagues, former players, and friends have remembered Natalie as the ultimate teammate and mentor—someone whose positivity, humility, and unwavering support inspired everyone around her. Even during her battle with cancer, she continued to exemplify courage, resilience, and grace, encouraging others through her strength and determination.
Family and friends will gather to celebrate Natalie’s remarkable life during visitation on Monday, July 6, at Fellows, Helfenbein & Newnam Funeral Home in Chester, Maryland. A Celebration of Life and Catholic Mass will be held on Tuesday, July 7, at St. Christopher’s Catholic Church, followed by interment at Stevensville Cemetery.
Although her life was far too short, Natalie Wills leaves behind an enduring legacy of excellence, compassion, and service. Her influence will continue to live on through the countless athletes she coached, the communities she strengthened, and the lives she touched. May she rest in eternal peace.
