Heart & Hustle Lacrosse Academy

Coach Smith brings years of playing and coaching experience, but it’s her passion for mentorship and youth development that truly sets her apart. She is dedicated to helping young athletes grow in confidence, skill, and sportsmanship.

Margaret Smith is a former University of Notre Dame women’s lacrosse standout and one of the premier defenders of her generation. A multi-year team captain, Smith built her game on toughness and discipline. She was known for her elite defensive instincts and relentless effort – qualities that define the Heart and Hustle Lacrosse Academy standard.

Coach Smith is a former All-American defender and Co-National Defender of the Year for the University Notre Dame Fighting Irish women’s lacrosse team, where she played from 2011–2014 and became one of the most dominant defensive midfielders in the nation. She graduated from the University of Notre Dame with a Bachelors Degree in Sociology and Peace Studies in 2014. After her standout collegiate career, Smith transitioned into coaching at multiple levels of the sport.

She served on the collegiate coaching staff at Stetson University, focusing on midfield / defensive development and unit communication. After two years, Smith returned to the University of Notre Dame in a coaching role to mentor attackers, goalies, and draw specialists in the very program where she made her name. Beyond the college game, Smith has coached with elite club programs including Queen City Stars and Ultimate in North Carolina and M&D Lacrosse Club in Maryland, where she contributed to the growth of nationally ranked players. Her impact as both an athlete and coach has made her a respected figure in player development.