Donaldson to team up with Arnison in 2026 as Rise women coaches

The Fly 2024 title-winning Head Coach Gavin Donaldson is back at The Fly Sixes Lacrosse League in 2026 after a year out as he teams up with newbie Rob Arnison as the Rise Men Head Coach ahead of the new season.

Donaldson famously masterminded Forge Women to the title in 2024 as Head Coach after a narrow 12-11 win over Hustle in the final.

Before this, he had cut his teeth as Assistant Coach of both Forge Men in 2022 finishing fourth and Swift Women in 2023 finishing second.

An experienced coach, Donaldson has also coached on the England Lacrosse Aspire Programme and been a part of the Wales coaching team.

Donaldson said:

I’m thrilled to step into this role. I applied because I believe in building a team culture rooted in high standards and accountability.

I want to create an environment driven by disciplined habits, where players also feel free to express their identity, creativity and competitive edge.

I’m committed to selecting players who embody these values and drive us forward as we work to become the next The Fly champions.

Donaldson is joined by Rob Arnison as his Assistant Coach who will make his debut at The Fly in 2026 after impressing as a coach for Heaton Mersey Lacrosse Club and Priestnall School.

He has over a decade of experience coaching in the senior men’s game at club level as well as some seven years nurturing the next generation of lacrosse player at junior girls level.

Arnison said:

I am excited to be part of a competition that I have watched develop with interest.

The chance to work with coaches and players looking to try new things and push the game forward is something I value greatly.

Donaldson and Arnison will team up for the first time at The Fly Sixes Lacrosse League when the 2026 season begins on Saturday 16 May.