Centre alum Phil Havira joined the coaching staff at his alma mater prior to the 2018 season as a volunteer assistant, and became a full-time assistant coach for Centre men's lacrosse in 2019.
In the recent 2023 season, Havira played a key role in the program's fourth run in the NCAA Tournament, second during his career with Centre. The Colonels finished 13-4 overall, claiming both the SAA regular season title and tournament title. The Gold & White clinched their first win on the national stage hosting Pfieffer. Moving to the second round, the Colonels closed their successful campaign, falling to the No. 9 ranked Washington & Lee. As the primary offensive coordinator, Havira guided the 3x SAA Player of the Year, Will Hubbs, adding another major award in SAA's Newcomer of the Year, Ryan Black.
Havira was a vital part of Centre's 2021 season that culminated in the program's first-ever NCAA Tournament victory. He helped the Colonels finish 12-2 overall with Southern Athletic Association regular season and tournament championships.Â
During his first full-time season in 2019, he helped lead the Colonels to a 10-5 record and a runner-up finish in the SAA.
In 2018, Havira helped guide Division III's 21st-ranked defense (7.13 GAA) as the defensive coordinator. He also took on duties as face-off coach and recruiting coordinator, as well as social media and travel manager.
Havira was a member of Centre's men's lacrosse program from 2012-16, being named Team Captain as a senior. He was a member of two NCAA Tournament teams (2013, 2014) as well as the 2014 SAA Tournament championship squad.
He earned his B.S. in Psychology (Behavioral Neuroscience) from Centre in 2016, and recently earned his Masters in Psychology (Athletic Counseling) from Springfield College.