John D. Phillips

Phillips was inducted as a truly great contributor for contributions in the fields of coaching, development and service. His involvement in the sport stretches over a half century dating back to his playing days at Navy and Cornell. Phillips had been heavily involved with the Long Island Lacrosse Club beginning in 1965, initially playing for the team and then serving as general manager and assistant coach. The club has won 18 USCLA championships in that time and finished as the runner-up 12 other times. 

Phillips represented Long Island with the USCLA beginning in 1967, including stints as president and vice-president of the organization. He was also a coach and general manager with the professional New York Saints, leading the franchise to one championship game appearance. Phillips was the manager for three U.S. teams that won world championships and was involved with the U.S. team program for over 30 years. 

Phillips was executive director of the International Lacrosse Federation from 1995 to 2002, and a member of the board of directors for the Lacrosse Foundation from 1987 to 1989. He has been director of the US Lacrosse Long Island Metro Chapter since its inception, and was inducted into that chapter's hall of fame in 1991. A retired computer consultant, Phillips also coached varsity lacrosse at Seaford (NY) High School. Phillips passed away in September, 2024, at the age of 89.