BLACKSBURG, Va. – The Men’s Collegiate Lacrosse Association (MCLA) is mourning the death of former Virginia Tech team president Wian Coetzer, who passed away on Nov. 5.

“The MCLA is a big family and when one of our past players passes away, it impacts us all,” said MCLA president Ken Lovic. “Our heartfelt condolences go out to the Coetzer family and the Virginia Tech program.”

Coetzer, a native of Hillsborough, N.J., was a four-year standout for the Hokies from 2015-18. He had 59 goals and 42 assists in his career (101 points) and was a third team all-SELC selection in his senior season.

As president of the Virginia Tech program, Coetzer played a big role in the Hokies going 57-17 during his career with three trips to the MCLA National Championships sponsored by New Balance.

Last year he was a student assistant for the team as he wrapped up his Aerospace Engineering degree.

“I was blessed to have had the opportunity to work with Wian and watch him develop into such an intelligent and responsible leader. Not only for our lacrosse team, but for the program and university as a whole,” said former Virginia Tech coach Tim O’Brien. “Wian had the heart of a lion. He was diligent on the field and in the classroom. He earned the respect of his peers and demanded it from his opponents on the field. He was our president, captain, friend and role model.

“These past few days have been difficult to process. We, as family, friends, teammates and alumni, are all hurting right now. But the strength of our bonds to Wian and to each other will help us through this difficult time.”