Clare Hanson '18

In this episode of The Always A Raven podcast, host Janelle Menz sits down with Clare Hansen ’18—head coach of the Benedictine College women’s lacrosse team and one of the most unlikely success stories in Raven athletics.

Clare arrived at Benedictine having never played lacrosse. But within just a few seasons, she became a standout player in the fledgling program. By 2021, she had stepped into the head coaching role—and in only four years, led the team to two national championships.

In this conversation, Clare shares how she went from complete beginner to national champion, the lessons she learned through trial, error, and perseverance, and how she’s built a team culture rooted in grit, growth, and heart.

It’s an inspiring story of saying “yes” to the unexpected—and discovering just how far passion and persistence can take you.