Madonia returns to the helm for 2026 World Championships in Tokyo

Lacrosse Australia has today announced the appointment of Max Madonia as Head Coach of the Australian Women’s Field Lacrosse Team that will compete at the 2026 World Lacrosse Women’s Championship in Tokyo, Japan.

One of the most respected and accomplished figures in Australian lacrosse, Madonia brings with him a long and decorated coaching career that has shaped the game both domestically and internationally. His track record includes leading the Australian Women’s Team to a historic gold medal at the 2005 World Championship in Annapolis, USA – defeating the host nation on its home soil, a moment still regarded as one of the greatest achievements in Australian lacrosse history.

Lacrosse Australia Chair, Abbie Burgess, said that Madonia’s appointment reflected the organisation’s commitment to drawing on world-class expertise as Australia continues to build momentum on the global stage.

“Max has an incredibly successful coaching history. His experience, strategic mind and proven ability to inspire players to perform on the world stage make him an exceptional leader for our women’s national team. With a gold medal already to his name, Max knows what it takes to win at the highest level, and we are thrilled to have him back at the helm as we head to Tokyo in 2026.”

For Madonia, the appointment marks an exciting new chapter in his storied coaching journey.

“It’s an incredible honor to once again lead this team and represent Australia on the world stage,” Madonia said.

“The talent, passion and drive in Australian lacrosse right now is outstanding, and the momentum we are building across the country is something really special. I can’t wait to get started and to work with this group as we prepare for Tokyo 2026.”

In addition to his 2005 glory, Madonia also led Australia’s national teams in 2013 and 1993, which both took out bronze, and he was an assistant for the silver medal performance in Tokyo in 1997.

Australia will enter the 2026 World Championship with renewed belief and ambition, aiming to build on its proud legacy in the women’s game and inspire the next generation of lacrosse players across the nation.

Madonia will drive a two-day invitational camp immediately after the Major League Sixes event, on 16-17 November in Adelaide.

ENDS

MEDIA CONTACT

Carly Luke
Media & Communications Manager, Lacrosse Australia
+ 61 433 279 133
media@lacrosse.com.au