Elite 2029

Rick Lewis

Thunder Elite Director

Rick Lewis is a nationally respected leader in the lacrosse community, with over 35 years of coaching experience spanning youth, high school, and elite club levels. Since 2003, he has played a major role in the explosive growth of lacrosse in Georgia, shaping programs, players, and the culture of the game statewide.

Rick currently serves as the Elite Director for Thunder Lacrosse, where he has led player development and team leadership for the past five years. Since 2014, he has also been a driving force behind the powerhouse program at Lambert High School, where his teams have captured five state championships and finished state runner-up five times—a testament to his consistent excellence and leadership.

As a player, Rick was a standout defenseman at Rutgers University, where he was a four-year starter, a two-time All-American, and a participant in the prestigious North/South Senior All-Star Game. His commitment to the sport was formally recognized in 2021, when he was inducted into the Georgia Lacrosse Hall of Fame.

Beyond the accolades and titles, Rick is most proud of the impact he’s had on the lives of his players. Known for his high standards, deep knowledge of the game, and ability to connect with athletes, Rick has helped hundreds of players reach their potential—on the field and in life.

Rick’s love for lacrosse is deeply personal. He and his wife Theresa, married for 34 years, have shared the game as a central part of their family life. Their three children—Rick (Offensive Coordinator at Army West Point), Erin, and Kyle (Lynchburg ’22, Ohio State ’24)—have all been immersed in the sport, making lacrosse not just a career, but a family legacy.

Tony Souza

Coach

Jim Buczek

Coach

Coach Jim Buczek hails from Loyola Blakefield in Maryland, class of ’88 where he is in the Dons Hall of Fame. Coach Buczek played at the University of North Carolina from ’88—’92 and was a part of the 1991 undefeated NCAA championship team. As a Tar Heel, he was a 3X All-American, ACC Rookie of the year and recognized as the Midfielder of the year in 1992. Coach Buczek is also a part of the ACC 50^th Anniversary Team. As a college coach, he helped Princeton win the NCAA championship in 1994 and coached at UNC from 1995-2000 winning 3 ACC championships. In 2005 Coach Buczek was named Head Coach at The Lovett school where he still coaches today and has since won 4 GHSA State Championships, 12X State Finalist and is in the Georgia Lacrosse Hall Of Fame.

Troy Steiner

Coach

Jason Reardon

Coach

Isom White

Coach

Elias McLaughlin

Coach

Noah Seabolt

Coach