Kirkwood High School Announces New Head Coaches for Girls’ Lacrosse and Boys’ Soccer

Kirkwood High School is excited to announce the appointment of two new head coaches for its athletic programs, as Maggie Perkins will take over as Head Girls’ Lacrosse Coach and Austin Lane has been named Head Boys’ Soccer Coach. Both appointments were officially approved at the Kirkwood School District Board of Education meeting on Monday, January 27, 2025.

Maggie Perkins Named Head Girls' Lacrosse Coach

Maggie Perkins, a 2005 graduate of Kirkwood High School, is returning to lead the girls' lacrosse program, having played for all four years during her time at KHS. Perkins brings both a deep connection to the program and a wealth of experience, having spent the last three years as an assistant coach. She holds a degree in Early Childhood Education from Webster University and a Master’s in Reading, and is a certified Missouri reading specialist. Perkins is currently in her 16th year teaching at Keysor Elementary School.

“I absolutely loved my experience playing lacrosse at Kirkwood High School, and I’m thrilled to now have the opportunity to give back to the program as head coach,” said Perkins. “I look forward to working with our athletes, building upon the foundation of success in the program, and creating an environment where our players can continue to grow both as athletes and as individuals.”

Corey Nesslage, KHS athletic director, also shared his enthusiasm for Perkins’ appointment: “We are extremely excited to have Maggie Perkins leading our girls’ lacrosse program this spring and beyond. Her strong connection with the players, combined with her experience as both a coach and a former player, will be invaluable as we move the program forward.” 

Austin Lane Named Head Boys' Soccer Coach

Austin Lane, a familiar face in the Kirkwood High School community, will succeed Coach Mike Quante, who stepped down after the 2024 season. Lane, who has served as the freshman coach for the past two years, brings over 11 years of coaching experience, including extensive time at the club level. He is currently completing his third year as the school’s gifted specialist after earning his degree in Secondary Education from the University of Missouri-St. Louis in 2017, and a master’s in Gifted Education from the University of Missouri-Columbia in 2020.

Lane expressed his excitement for the opportunity: “I am incredibly excited and honored to lead the Kirkwood High School boys’ soccer program. The program has such a rich tradition, and I can’t wait to continue building on that success while creating a positive, competitive environment where our student-athletes can thrive.”

Corey Nesslage expressed confidence in Lane’s leadership: “We are thrilled to have Austin step into this role. His passion for soccer, combined with his ability to connect with our athletes, makes him the perfect person to lead the program. Throughout the interview process and his work within our soccer program, it was clear that Austin has the skills, drive, and leadership qualities needed to take our team to the next level.”