WORCESTER, MA – The Worcester State University Athletics Department is proud to announce Lazaro Mitjans Jr. as the next head coach of the Lancers football program. A dynamic young coach with experience coaching across multiple levels in Massachusetts and New England, Mitjans brings a fresh perspective, energy, and a proven track record of developing student-athletes to Worcester State.
“We had a very robust selection of candidates that applied to become the next Lancers Head Football Coach. Lazaro rose to the top of that list,” says Athletic Director Michael Mudd. “He has had incredible mentoring from some of the top college head football coaches in New England and has a great football acumen. I have no doubt Lazaro will do a terrific job recruiting student-athletes to Worcester State, developing young men, and be a strong presence within our campus community.”
Mitjans arrives at Worcester State following successful coaching stints at Harvard University, Amherst College and Massachusetts Maritime Academy. At Harvard, Mitjans served as the running backs coach, playing a key role in developing a talented backfield and contributing to the program’s success in the Ivy League. His experience includes working with players to maximize their athletic potential while fostering a culture of teamwork, discipline, and academic excellence. While at Amherst College he was responsible for recruiting and coaching the wide receivers. He also has had previous experience in the MASCAC, serving in various roles during his two years at Massachusetts Maritime Academy, including Offensive Coordinator, Running Backs and Wide Receivers Coach.
Mitjans takes over for interim head coach Zach Besaw, who led the Lancers to a 3-7 record during the 2024 season. The Worcester State Athletics department extends its gratitude to Coach Besaw for his leadership and dedication to the program. “Zach did an outstanding job taking over a difficult situation and creating a great environment for our student-athletes,” said Mudd. “We are hopeful that Zach will continue to remain an important part of our program moving forward.”
“I am extremely excited to be named the Head Football Coach at Worcester State University. I want to thank Michael Mudd and everyone involved in the process for this opportunity and making me feel welcome on campus,” says Mitjans. “I look forward to working with our student-athletes to put out a product in the community, in the classroom, and on the football field that will make every Lancer proud!”
Known for his innovative approach to the game and commitment to player development, Mitjans has quickly earned a reputation as a rising star in collegiate coaching. His background at Harvard, Amherst and Mass Maritime has prepared him to lead the Lancers with a focus on excellence both in competition and in academics.
Mitjans will immediately begin preparations for the upcoming 2025 football season, focusing on recruitment, player development, and building a competitive program for the Massachusetts State Collegiate Athletic Conference (MASCAC).
About Worcester State University Athletics:
Worcester State University is a proud member of the NCAA Division III and the Massachusetts State Collegiate Athletic Conference (MASCAC). Committed to fostering excellence in academics and athletics, the Athletics Department supports over 20 varsity sports programs.