Chris Duncan was named head coach of the Whitman College women's lacrosse program in 2024 after serving as interim head coach and previously as the program's assistant. A two-time Northwest Conference (NWC) Coach of the Year (2025, 2026), Duncan has led the Blues through the most successful stretch in program history, highlighted by their first NWC Tournament Championship and NCAA Division III Tournament appearance in 2026.
Under Duncan's leadership, Whitman has established new standards for competitive success. In 2025, the Blues set a program record for single-season wins, posted a program-best conference winning percentage, finished second in the NWC regular season, and advanced to the conference tournament championship game. In 2026, Whitman captured its first NWC Tournament Championship, earning the program's inaugural NCAA Tournament berth.
Recruiting and player development have been central to the program's growth. During Duncan's tenure on the coaching staff, Whitman has produced numerous All-NWC selections, including a program-record 10 honorees in 2025 followed by 9 honorees in 2026. The Blues have also earned four NWC Rookie of the Year awards, an NWC Offensive Player of the Year award, an NWC Defensive Player of the Year award, and IWLCA All-West Region recognition.
Duncan joined the Whitman women's lacrosse coaching staff in 2020 and served as assistant before taking over as interim head coach in 2024. His coaching approach emphasizes player development, accountability, competitive excellence, and a team culture that challenges student-athletes to grow both on and off the field. Under his leadership, the Blues have continued to strengthen their roster, competitive standards, and commitment to academic achievement.
A Whitman alumnus ('10), Duncan previously served as an assistant coach for the College's men's MCLA lacrosse program from 2012 to 2015. He was also a four-year starter and all-conference midfielder for the Blues. His professional experience at Whitman extends beyond athletics, having previously worked in the College's Office of Admission.
Duncan has been actively involved in growing lacrosse throughout the Walla Walla Valley. He helped launch Walla Walla Youth Lacrosse, previously served on its board, and has worked to expand opportunities for young athletes in Southeast Washington.
Originally from Barrington, Rhode Island, Duncan earned his B.A. in English from Whitman College and an MBA with a concentration in Sports Management from Southern New Hampshire University. He resides in Walla Walla with his wife, Becca ('12), and their two daughters, Maconda and Wren.
