Griffin Schutz brings a wealth of high-level playing experience and an elite competitive pedigree to Berkshire’s boys varsity lacrosse program as an assistant coach.

A graduate of Deerfield Academy, Schutz was the No. 1 ranked recruit in the Class of 2021 by Inside Lacrosse before embarking on a storied career at the University of Virginia. A multiple-time All-American, he finished his time in Charlottesville as one of the most dynamic midfielders in program history, ranking No. 2 in points (130), No. 4 in assists (44), and No. 6 in goals (86).

Following his standout collegiate career, Schutz was selected by the California Redwoods in the 2025 Premier Lacrosse League Draft. The Trumbull, Conn. native is currently pursuing a Master’s degree in Environmental Leadership and Management at the University of Nottingham in England. He will join Berkshire’s science department this fall.

We’re excited to welcome Schutz. Read the Q&A below to learn more about his journey to Berkshire.

When did you first start playing lacrosse?

I honestly don't know. For as long as I can remember, I’ve had a stick in my hand and have taken every opportunity to play. I think it's a testament to being the classic copycat younger brother, and I feel so blessed to have grown up with my brother [Tom, a 2019 Southern New Hampshire University graduate who played all four years], who has paved the way for me in everything, but specifically lacrosse. 

We heard there’s a story involving a dream that led you to Berkshire. Can you walk us through that?

Although I've always had a special place in my heart for Berkshire from my high school days, I never thought I had a chance of being hired right out of college at such a prestigious school, so I simply took the school off my radar. Up until one night, I had a dream. This might sound kind of crazy… When I woke up, the only thing I could remember was "Berkshire." That morning I sent some emails, and the rest is history. I feel so blessed to have been guided here.

How did Deerfield Academy and the University of Virginia shape you as a player and person?

An important part of my life’s journey was my experience at Deerfield. I learned how important it is for students to have trusted adults they feel comfortable turning to in such a strenuous environment. High school can create a tremendous amount of anxiety and stress, and it is vitally important that students can turn to a faculty member or coach who models integrity, hope, and kindness. I hope to be someone these young adults can rely on and turn to in times of struggle, because I have been in their shoes.

UVA was a whole other animal. It was a place where I grew into the man I was meant to become. We were constantly challenged, and through that, a level of maturity was born. It was also where I developed a strong passion for the environment and science. I’ve been blessed to learn from incredible coaches and teachers, and I will be bringing all of that with me to this beautiful school.

How did it feel to be drafted by the Premier Lacrosse League’s California Redwoods?

It was surreal. I honestly had no clue it was going to happen. Although I knew I couldn't play that year with grad school on the horizon, it was truly amazing to hear my name called. More than anything, it was a way of saying thank you to all the people that have had their hands on my lacrosse journey. Being drafted was that last step of my playing career and the beginning of my new chapter as a coach, and I will forever be grateful for that.

You’re currently pursuing your Master’s in Environmental Leadership and Management at the University of Nottingham in England. What’s been the most interesting or surprising part of that experience?

The full English breakfast. Beans, tomatoes, and mushrooms for breakfast... Don't knock it till you try it! 

The experience has been life-changing. Being thrown into a foreign country is no joke. Although not too drastically different, there was still some culture shock, and I’ll forever be grateful for Nottingham for allowing me to embrace those differences and figure out how to thrive in a new system. It’s a place for me to grow, and it was yet another place to keep adding what I like to call my "dad lore” (the often unbelievable, adventurous stories people share about their lives).

What’s your favorite lacrosse memory?

My favorite lacrosse memory comes from coaching at the Earth Lacrosse Camp in Jackson, Wyo. [a nonprofit adventure program that promotes mental and physical health through lacrosse, nature, and Haudenosaunee culture]. The players there truly love the sport. The scenery and the atmosphere is just truly different in a place like that, much like here, and it was the highlight of my year to have a hand in coaching such great players who have a genuine joy and love for lacrosse and life.

Outside of lacrosse, what are some of your interests or hobbies?

I have always been someone who can bounce in and out of phases. Some of those hobbies include watercolor painting, cooking, hunting and fishing, and reading. I love to read a nice philosophy or history book, and I enjoy working out. Anything outdoors, really, is what has my heart. 

What are you most looking forward to about being part of the Berkshire community?

Everything. I truly believe I have been guided here for a reason, and although I am only a handful of days in, it truly feels like home. I am looking forward to giving back everything I have to this school and the students. I am most looking forward to being an active family member in this community, helping where I can. The dining hall has been pretty top-notch so far too.