Dallas Hartley: MCLA Hall of Fame Class 2020

An impressive long-stick midfielder who played at the outset of the MCLA (1997-00), the Encinitas, Calif., product became a two-time All-American for the Cossacks and a three-time all-WCLL pick.

Despite only playing one year of prep lacrosse at San Dieguito High, Hartley stepped into the Sonoma State lineup and quickly became the program’s career leader in ground balls with his tenacity and athleticism. He was twice named to the MCLA all-tournament team.

“Hartley was arguably the best at his position in the MCLA during his four years and was critical to helping build Sonoma from an unknown program to a top program in MCLA,” said former Sonoma State coach John Hughes. “He is clearly well-known as a coach, but I’m glad he’s being honored as a player because he’s very deserving.”

Hartley, who currently teaches government and psychology at La Costa Canyon High, is in his 10th season as the head coach at Chapman. He has a 148-38 record with the Panthers and won the 2016 MCLA Division I title with a 22-0 mark.

“I'm incredibly grateful for my playing experience with Sonoma State University,” said Hartley. “I got to play high-level lacrosse with my best friends for one of the best coaches in the history of the MCLA, and had a lot of fun doing it. To be recognized as one of the first ten players to go into the MCLA Hall of Fame is a great honor.

“I played with or against most of these incredible players and to have my name included in the group is awesome. The MCLA has provided thousands of players each year with a great opportunity to play lacrosse at schools that don't have NCAA programs. More importantly, a student-athlete can make the decision to go to the school that fits them best academically and geographically and play great lacrosse along the way.”

Prior to joining Chapman, Hartley coached at La Costa Canyon from 2002-10 where he made eight straight San Diego CIF championship games and won four CIF titles. He lives in Southern California with his wife, Annie, along with daughter Tatum and sons Grayson and Micah.

Hartley and the MCLA Hall of Fame Class of 2020 will be inducted on May 8 at the Hotel RL in Salt Lake City. They will also be honored on Saturday, May 9 at Judge Memorial High School during the two finals of the 2020 MCLA National Championships presented by New Balance.

Article Credit: MCLA.US