Meet the coaches!

COach Brian RuppeL

Brian Ruppel brings both elite talent and grounded leadership to the Capybara Lacrosse coaching staff. A standout goalie at the University of Maryland, Brian made an immediate impact as a freshman, earning BIG10 Freshman of the Week and BIG10 Specialist of the Week honors twice. He was named Academic All-BIG10, reflecting his dedication both on the field and in the classroom. In 2023, he stepped into the starting role and never looked back—starting the final 13 games and recording 138 saves.

What sets Brian apart as a coach is not just his résumé, but his calm presence, thoughtful teaching style, and genuine passion for the game. He understands that middle school is a pivotal time—not only for skill development but for building confidence and character. Whether he’s helping a young player sharpen fundamentals or encouraging them after a tough moment, Brian brings the same focus and heart he’s shown in the NCAA’s biggest arenas.

Coach GRIFFIN schutz

Griffin Schutz brings a dynamic offensive presence and a deep understanding of the game to Capybara Lacrosse. At the University of Virginia, Griffin has been a key offensive midfielder, known for his powerful dodges and precise passing. In the 2025 season, he tallied 16 goals and nine assists, showcasing his ability to impact the game both as a scorer and a facilitator.

A native of Trumbull, Connecticut, Griffin was a top-ranked recruit and has continued to excel at the collegiate level. His experience playing both attack and midfield positions gives him a versatile perspective on offensive strategies. As a coach, Griffin is dedicated to developing young players’ offensive skills, emphasizing the importance of fundamentals, decision-making, and teamwork. He is committed to helping athletes grow their confidence and love for the game.
 

AJ Larkin brings elite defensive prowess and a high lacrosse IQ to Capybara Lacrosse. The Maryland junior has been a key contributor to one of the nation’s top defenses. In the 2025 season, AJ played a pivotal role in holding top-ranked offenses like Syracuse and Notre Dame well below their scoring averages, while also contributing offensively with goals and assists.

A Baltimore native and Loyola Blakefield graduate, AJ was a five-star recruit and a U.S. Lacrosse Select team member.  His combination of physicality, field awareness, and communication skills makes him a standout on the field. As a coach, AJ is passionate about teaching the nuances of defensive play and fostering a strong team culture. He is committed to helping young athletes develop their skills, understand the game, and build confidence both on and off the field.

Coach AJ LArkin