COLLEGE PARK, Md. –  Maryland assistant coach/offensive coordinator Jake Bernhardt has been named head coach of the Colby Mules men's lacrosse team, the school announced Friday.

Bernhardt will be missed greatly in College Park. 

"I am very excited for Jake and his family," head coach John Tillman said. "They are really looking forward to returning to the New England area and being closer to family. Jake has made such a positive impact on our program as a player and coach and I'm confident that he will continue to do the same at Colby. He is not just an outstanding coach, he is a terrific role model and person. The future is bright for Colby Lacrosse."

Bernhardt returned to College Park in July of 2022 and took over an offense that was without its top five point-scorers from the previous season. With the help of Bernhardt's guidance, the Terps made their 20th straight postseason appearance. Bernhardt also played a big role in the development of Braden Erksa who went on to lead the Terps in points as a freshman and became the school's first-ever Big Ten Freshman of the Year.

During his playing days in College Park, Bernhardt was a two-time team captain known for his hard work and leadership. A fantastic midfielder, Bernhardt racked up 49 goals, 14 assists, and 63 points. After graduation he spent the 2014 season as the team's Director of Operations before spending five seasons coaching at the University of Vermont.

Bernhardt becomes the sixth assistant coach under Tillman to become a head coach since Tillman became Maryland's head coach in 2011.

His two younger brothers, Jesse and Jared Bernhardt both remain on the staff.