Kathy Taylor Stands Firm Against Misconduct Allegations with Player Support

Kathy Taylor, a prominent figure in women's lacrosse with over 30 years of coaching experience, has publicly responded to recent allegations that stem from a lawsuit filed against Colgate University. In her statement released on February 25, 2026, Taylor expressed profound gratitude for the unwavering support she received from nearly fifty former players, coaches, and parents, many of whom have achieved remarkable success in their own careers.

The backdrop of this situation dates back to December 2025 when former player Amelia Cunningham filed a lawsuit against Colgate University, though Taylor herself is not named in the complaint. The allegations prompted intense media scrutiny, to which Taylor reacted assertively, stating the coverage surrounding the incident has been reckless, describing it as a “smear campaign with a press pass.” Taylor’s career has been marked by a commitment to cultivating young female athletes, and she believes that the portrayal of her coaching style as abusive is not only misleading but harmful to her legacy.

Taylor's path in coaching has been storied. With major victories at Fayetteville-Manlius High School and SUNY Cortland, where she turned the Division III program into a national contender, her credentials as a coach were well established. Her accolade highlights include leading Le Moyne College to an NCAA Division II National Championship and being named the National Coach of the Year. She has also been inducted into several halls of fame and has served in leadership roles within the coaching community, underscoring her influence and dedication to the sport.

At Colgate University, Taylor was tasked with elevating the women's lacrosse program, and a five-month investigation initiated by the university concluded that she had not committed any wrongdoing. Instead of facing consequences, she was offered an extended contract, a testament to her successful coaching and the trust Colgate placed in her. However, the anonymous allegations that initiated the investigation were not merely academic; they ignited a chain reaction that profoundly impacted Taylor's public perception and personal life.

In her statement, Taylor emphasized her intention to protect the players and the integrity of the program during the investigation, suggesting that her silence was a reflection of her respect and care for the team. Nevertheless, she has made it clear that she can no longer remain quiet while her contributions to women's lacrosse are challenged. The testimonials from former players and colleagues highlight the positive influence she has had, with many of them now excelling in various fields, such as military, education, and sports.

One key point Taylor raised was the distorted narrative being perpetuated by media outlets, which she claims have favored sensationalism over factual reporting. She underscored that true journalism involves seeking out all sides of a story, rather than resorting to one-sided reporting that stigmatizes individuals based on unverified claims. Taylor articulated a burning desire to reclaim her narrative and defend the values she has instilled in her players – integrity, accountability, and empowerment.

With nearly fifty testimonials from those who have been positively impacted by her coaching, Taylor is determined to push back against the harmful allegations. She firmly believes that her legacy cannot be erased, regardless of the challenges posed by the ongoing legal battle. As she looks back on her remarkable career and the hundreds of young women who have flourished under her guidance, Taylor expresses hope that the truth will ultimately prevail.

In conclusion, Kathy Taylor’s story is not just one of defending against allegations; it is proof of resilience. As she continues to advocate for herself and the values of her long career in women’s lacrosse, her situation has ignited conversations about accountability, the role of media, and the importance of ensuring that the voices of those impacted by accusations are heard. The outcome of this case will not just shape Taylor's future but has broader implications for how such narratives are approached in sports and coaching today.