Bio

Joe Turner was named head men's lacrosse coach in the fall of 2021.

Turner joined Mars Hill after serving as assistant coach and recruiting coordinator for the University of Alabama Huntsville last season.  With UAH, Turner helped lead the team to their first Peach Belt Conference tournament appearance, win, and championship appearance while developing five All-PBC recipients, three all-tournament honorees, as well as the Freshman of the Year.

Prior to joining the Chargers, Turner spent four years with South Atlantic Conference rival Wingate from 2016-2020 in the same capacity.  The Bulldogs won the SAC Championship from 2017-19 and made NCAA Tournament appearances in 2017 & 2019.  While at Wingate, Turner developed five USILA All-Americans and 29 All-SAC recipients.  In 2019, he was nominated for 2019 NCAA DII Assistant Coach of the Year.

Turner began his collegiate coaching career with the University of St. Thomas in Saint Paul, Minnesota.  As an offensive assistant who specialized in the extra man offense, Turner saw the Tommies win two UMLC Championships in 2013 & 2014 as well as earning two MCLA National Tournament appearances in those same years.  In 2013, the team won the MCLA DII National Championship, capping off an undefeated 17-0 campaign.

Turner attended Dowling College where he excelled both in the classroom and on the lacrosse field.  He graduated in 2012 with a bachelor’s degree in business management and leadership.  During his senior season, he was named captain of the men’s lacrosse team and led the team to winning the NCAA National Championship.