Grand Rapids, Mich – Built on consistency, service, and a deep understanding of what it means to wear the Aquinas uniform, Peter Treppa has continued to shape the foundation of the Saints men's lacrosse program. Now two seasons into his tenure as head coach, Treppa has built upon years of investment in the program as an assistant coach and defensive coordinator, leading with a vision centered on competitive excellence, character development, and meaningful community impact.
A Steady Rise Within the Saints Program
Peter Treppa is the fourth official head coach of the Aquinas College men's lacrosse program, assuming the role in the summer of 2024 after serving six seasons as the team's defensive coach. During his time on the sidelines, Treppa played a key role in guiding the Saints to two NAIA National Tournament appearances in the past six seasons, including a national runner-up finish in 2019 and a semifinal run in 2022.
According to Joey Sutherlin, Aquinas Assistant AD – Director of Athletic Communications, "Peter Treppa embodies everything you hope for in a coach and a leader at Aquinas College. He understands the tradition and responsibility that comes with wearing our colors, and he pours that same pride into his program every single day. He works relentlessly, expects that same commitment from his team, and at the same time is unwavering in his support of his student-athletes and the integrity of the game. Peter is deeply committed to the values of the NAIA and Aquinas — developing young men who are not only great lacrosse players, but also strong students and outstanding citizens. He truly cares about the legacy of Aquinas Men's Lacrosse and is building something that will last well beyond wins and losses."
Professor Cantley also commented saying, "Coach Treppa's Men's Lacrosse team embodies school spirit and teamwork. We always know when they are at other sporting events on campus. They are vocal when cheering on other AQ teams. On the field, Coach Treppa has put together a real team. The players support each other and work well together. In the classroom, I have seen nothing but hard work and good humor. All of these qualities come from their leader Coach Peter Treppa."
From Michigan Roots to Championship Pedigree
A native of Clinton Township, Michigan, Treppa attended L'Anse Creuse High School, where he played lacrosse before graduating in 2012. He continued his playing career at Adrian College, recording 26 ground balls and seven caused turnovers during the 2013 season. Treppa later transferred to Grand Valley State University, where he had an outstanding collegiate career from 2014 to 2016.
At GVSU, Treppa earned First Team All-America Defense and First Team All-Conference Defense honors in three consecutive seasons. He was named to the All-Tournament Defense Team in 2014 and served as team captain in both 2015 and 2016, highlighting his leadership and consistency on the field. Treppa also helped lead the Lakers to a national championship in 2014 and conference championships in 2014 and 2015.
Following his playing career, Treppa transitioned into coaching at Grand Valley State, serving as an assistant coach and defensive coordinator under head coach Tim Murray from 2016 to 2018. He later joined the Aquinas coaching staff, where he has continued to make an impact as the defensive coordinator.
"I've had the pleasure of being coached by Peter Treppa for 4 years and coach alongside him for 2 years and counting and he's the most dedicated person I have ever met. He does everything the right way and sets a great example for these young men that we coach together. He's been a great mentor to me over the past 8 years of my life," said assistant coach Matt Wagner.
In addition to his collegiate coaching responsibilities, Treppa has coached with the Premier Lacrosse Group (PLG) since 2022, working with youth and high school travel teams.
Building More Than a Team
Beyond wins and accolades, Treppa places a strong emphasis on community service and character development. He consistently leads by example, encouraging his team to give back through volunteer efforts across campus and the local community. His players regularly assist with event setup and teardown, including helping after Nelly's events and preparing for graduation ceremonies.
"Coach Treppa has been one of the most influential persons in my life for the past 4 1/2 years, dating before my time at Aquinas. I haven't seen a coach pour as much time and effort into a program and its people as much as Peter does. His dedication as a coach and as a person is unmatched, and it is something that helps motivate me daily. Not only is he a great coach, but a great person as well. Regardless of how busy or hectic his day is, he will always go out of his way to support his players, as well as other programs on campus. I believe the small things that he focuses on with our program contribute the most to our overall success on and off the field. There's a difference between saying and doing, and Peter is 100% someone that backs up what he says. I couldn't be more comfortable as a part of this program with Peter as our leader," said Blake Sysmanski.
"One of the greatest coaches I had the opportunity to play for, Peter Treppa genuinely cared about developing us not only as lacrosse players, but as young men. His impact went far beyond the field, and the lessons he taught continue to guide me today. He remains a mentor to me as I've begun my own coaching journey at the high school level, and I'm incredibly grateful for the foundation he helped build in my life," said Joey Fitzgerald.
Treppa and his team also volunteer at local lacrosse events such as Boo Bash, where they help officiate youth tournaments annually, and Fall Brawl, where players assist with scorekeeping and game operations for both boys' and girls' lacrosse. Additional service projects include raking leaves for faculty members, supporting Catholic Charities of Western Michigan by organizing toys for their annual drive, and assisting with off campus events such as Confident Kids that provide school supplies and services for K–12 students in foster care.
Leading With Purpose
Individually, Treppa is a longtime supporter of the Positive Coaching Alliance and even grows his hair out to donate to Wigs for Kids, further reflecting his commitment to giving back and fostering a positive youth sports experience both on and off the field.
"Aquinas College has meant so much to me, both professionally and personally. I truly feel blessed to have the opportunity to build relationships with our student athletes during some of the most formative years of their lives. I've also been incredibly fortunate to work alongside great coaches and leaders in a community that genuinely cares for one another.
The journey hasn't always been easy, but every obstacle and challenge has pushed me to grow, put my trust in God, and to become the best coach and person I can be. I'm deeply grateful for our players and their families, and for the chance to serve and make a positive impact through this program," said head coach Peter Treppa.
