“I couldn’t be more excited to welcome Rick home to the Buckeye lacrosse family,” said Myers. “He’s a man of high character, incredible energy and truly values what it means to be a Buckeye. I have no doubt that he’ll make an immediate impact on our young men and our brotherhood. I’m fired up to get him back in Columbus in the Scarlet and Gray!”

Lewis most recently served a two-year stint as the volunteer assistant coach at Army. The Black Knights had a combined record of 19-7 during his time and won the 2019 Patriot League Tournament title. Before COVD-19 cut the 2020 season short, Army was off to a 6-2 start.

For 2020, Lewis coached the goalies and face-off specialists while running the in-game substitution box and assisting with player development. He helped goalie Wyatt Schulper finish fourth nationally in save percentage (.617) and No. 2 in goals-against average (7.18).

“The Ohio State University means so much to me and I’m thankful to have this opportunity to do what I love at a place that I love,” said Lewis. “I’m excited to say that I’m coming home.”

“The Army lacrosse family is so appreciative of the energy and effort that Coach Lewis brought the past two years,” said Army head coach Joe Alberici. “His ability to connect and willingness to invest helped make all of us better. We wish him nothing but success as he moves to the Ohio State family. His alma mater holds a special place in his heart and I know he will make a positive impact on Buckeye student-athletes.”

Prior to Army, Lewis coached high school and club lacrosse in his home state of Georgia. Playing an integral role in developing the sport throughout the state, Lewis, served as the offensive coordinator at Lambert High School. He led the Longhorns to a state title in 2018 – their fourth in nine years – as the team finished with a perfect 22-0 record. Lewis was the Georgia High School Athletic Association Assistant Coach of the Year. While he was coaching at Lambert, Lewis also worked full-time in commercial real estate with Bull Realty in Atlanta.

Lewis came to Ohio State from Cumming, Ga. and over his four-year career helped the Buckeyes advance to the NCAA Quarterfinals twice (2013 and 2015) while compiling a 39-26 record.