Support staff locked in ahead of next year’s Women’s Field World Championships in Tokyo
Lacrosse Australia has today announced the support staff for the Australian Women’s Field National Team that will compete at the World Lacrosse Women’s Field Championship in Tokyo, Japan in July 2026.
The team’s leadership group will feature a blend of experience, expertise, and deep lacrosse knowledge, with Janet Maitland appointed as Team Manager, and Michelle Davies (née Lincoln) and Colleen Dawson joining as Assistant Coaches alongside Head Coach Max Madonia.
Madonia said the appointments bring together a trusted and high-performing leadership team ready to guide Australia’s campaign on the world stage.
“I am excited about the opportunity to work with this newly appointed leadership team — a group of trusted, high-integrity professionals with exceptional lacrosse experience and a strong track record building high-performing teams,” said Madonia.
“They communicate openly, collaborate seamlessly, and thrive under pressure. Their passion, quick thinking, and leadership will drive momentum and elevate our entire team.”
Madonia said the collective experience and balance within the group will set the tone for the team’s preparation and culture in the lead-up to Tokyo.
“Our coaching staff will bring a clear vision and deliver concise, constructive feedback while respecting the human element. Together we will build a winning and caring culture grounded in constant communication and mutual respect.
“With Tokyo less than 12 months away, our program must now focus on developing a cohesive squad, establishing strong team philosophies, and building a robust framework that enables us to assemble a world-class team — one fully capable of achieving podium success on the global stage.”
Lacrosse Australia Chair Abbie Burgess-Brice congratulated the appointees and said their leadership will play a critical role in the next phase of the women’s national program.
“Janet, Michelle and Colleen each bring exceptional knowledge, professionalism, and passion to the program,” Burgess-Brice said.
“This group represents the very best of Australian lacrosse — experienced leaders who care deeply about the game and the athletes who play it. With Max at the helm, this leadership team will help shape a positive, high-performance environment as the squad prepares for Tokyo 2026.”
The World Lacrosse Women’s Field Championship will be held in Tokyo, Japan in July 2026.
For any further media enquiries please contact:
Carly Luke
Media & Communications Manager, Lacrosse Australia
media@lacrosse.com.au
+61 433 279 133
BACKGROUND INFORMATION – STAFF PROFILES
Colleen Dawson, a former NCAA Division I National Champion with the University of Maryland, joins the Australian Women’s Lacrosse leadership team ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Combining over ten years of Division I coaching with playing and coaching experience in Australia, and her current role as Assistant Athletic Director and Director of Lacrosse at Germantown Academy, Dawson brings elite expertise in leadership and high-performance team development. Holding a Master’s in Organisational Development and Leadership, she is excited to contribute to Australia’s success on the world stage.
Michelle Davies joins the leadership group for the 2026 Australian Women’s Lacrosse Team, bringing extensive experience as both a player and coach. A member of Australia’s 2005 World Championship-winning team, Michelle has represented and coached across state and national levels, combining her deep understanding of the game with a passion for athlete development and building a positive team culture and environment. With a professional background in leadership and organisational development, she brings a holistic approach to performance, fostering connection, belief, and excellence on and off the field.
Janet Maitland has represented Australia as both a player and assistant coach, earning a gold medal as an Assistant Coach in the 2005 World Championship-winning team, as well as two World Cup bronze medals. She has also been an Assistant Coach at NCAA Division I level gaining a deeper understanding of what drives success in high-performance environments. Professionally, she holds a Masters of Business Administration and is an accomplished business leader with over two decades in senior executive roles, combining strategic, organisational, and leadership expertise to support high-performance teams on and off the field