How did you become the San Diego State Women’s Lacrosse Head Coach?
I was hired to start the Women’s lacrosse program in 2010 after being an assistant coach at Stanford, Ohio State, and Loyola in Maryland.
Kylee White - Aztec Club Feature
Rafa Francisco
Opens in a new window As a former student-athlete, can you tell us how you bring your experience to your team?
What I cherished most about my student-athlete experience was the lifelong bonds I built with my teammates and coaches. I learned how to balance the demands of academics and athletics, and as an international student-athlete, I felt incredibly fortunate to compete at a high level with the resources and support that come with being part of a Division I program. It was all a bit unexpected, and I truly appreciated every opportunity we were given. From that experience, my goal at SDSU has been to give our athletes the best four years of their lives, years they wouldn’t want to change. I’ve worked to build a culture rooted in gratitude, where relationships are valued and every opportunity is embraced. I left college feeling prepared for life, and I left with lifelong friendships. That’s exactly what I hope to create for my team.
Do you have a favorite memory from your time as a student-athlete?
As part of a young Ohio State program, one of my favorite memories was sitting alongside my teammates, watching the NCAA selection show, and experiencing the excitement of hearing our name called. It was a historic moment—our program’s first-ever NCAA tournament appearance—and being part of that milestone was something I will remember forever.
How have scholarships and philanthropy helped your program?
Without the generous support of our donors, competing on a national level would be a significant challenge for our program. As lacrosse remains largely concentrated on the East Coast, scholarships are crucial in helping us recruit top talent from across the country. With few West Coast programs and our membership in the Big 12 conference, donor contributions have been vital in funding travel and securing the competitive opportunities necessary for our program’s continued growth and success.
What is your favorite highlight or aztec memory?
One of my most cherished memories is our program’s very first victory. After spending an entire year recruiting and building the team from the ground up, seeing it all come together in that inaugural win, under the lights on our home field, was truly unforgettable. Another standout moment was our thrilling overtime win to claim our first-ever MPSF championship, also on our home turf. The energy, the emotion, and the sense of accomplishment in that moment were absolutely incredible.
What is one thing fans can look forward to in the 2025-26 Lacrosse season?
The 2025–26 schedule is filled with high-level competition against some of the nation’s top programs. Our young team is returning with incredible energy and commitment, and I believe we’re going to see a fast-paced, highly aggressive group that’s eager to compete at the highest level.
What is something your student-athletes have taught you?
Every year, my athletes teach me something new. They've made me a better coach by showing me the power of resilience and the importance of empathy. Through them, I’ve learned to celebrate the small victories, to truly listen, and to lead with greater understanding. Today’s student-athletes face pressures that are very different from those I experienced in college, and I continue to grow by watching how they navigate it all with positivity and determination. Their strength and adaptability constantly inspire me.
What do you like to do in your free time outside of this role?
I have a husband and two young, energetic sons who keep us busy! Most of my free time is spent with them, watching them grow as we explore the world of youth sports. We love spending time at the beach, snuggling our big dogs, and honestly, I don't have much time for anything else. I have also remained closely connected to Lacrosse Canada, taking on coaching roles with the U20 and U17 national teams. It has been important for me to give back to the program that has given me so much over the years.
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