Looking Back, Moving Forward: Lucas Yash ’20 Reflects on Marianapolis and His Professional Journey
Marianapolis alum Lucas Yash ’20 has embarked on an exciting and dynamic journey since graduating six years ago. He attended Springfield College, where he studied Sport Management and Recreation, as well as business, while playing on the golf team. During his college years, Lucas gained hands-on experience through internships and volunteer opportunities with the AHL’s Springfield Thunderbirds, the Spalding HoopHall Classic, and Firecracker Sports.
Lucas later secured an internship with the Boston Celtics, working in the Live Production and Entertainment department. This experience culminated in the team’s run to the NBA Finals and the organization’s historic 18th championship! Following that internship, Lucas joined the Boston Red Sox organization as part of the Game Events and Services team, later transitioning into his current role as an Associate on the Client Services team. Working in professional sports has always been a dream for Lucas, and he is proud to be building a career in this field.
Some of Lucas’ most meaningful Marianapolis memories were made on the basketball court and on the road with his teammates. From daily practices spent with his “boys” to traveling for away games and late-night pit stops on the way back to campus, basketball season created camaraderie and moments he will always cherish. These shared experiences helped define his Marianapolis journey and left a lasting impact long after graduation.
Lucas credits Marianapolis faculty and staff with shaping his experience in powerful ways, and two mentors stand out in particular: Mrs. Sumner and Mr. Benedict.
“Mrs. Sumner was someone who truly made an impact on my life,” says Lucas. “She was more than just a teacher at that school, as she was someone I could turn to if I needed advice, was having issues with anything, or just needed someone to talk to. She made coming into school fun and enjoyable, no matter what was going on.”
Another person who made an impact on Lucas’ life was Mr. Benedict. “I had some of the greatest years of my life with him as my basketball coach at Marianapolis,” shares Lucas. “His mentorship on and off the court, along with many different conversations, are memories I will cherish forever.”
A highlight of Lucas’s student experience was LEAP, a tradition he eagerly anticipated each year. Through LEAP, Lucas traveled to incredible destinations like the Florida Keys and Zion National Park in Utah. These trips allowed him to form lifelong friendships, strengthen existing ones, and experience new parts of the country while learning along the way. For Lucas, LEAP embodied everything special about Marianapolis: connection, exploration, and growth beyond the classroom.
Reflecting on his time on campus, Lucas shares that Marianapolis helped shape who he is today by teaching him independence and responsibility. Balancing academics, athletics, and other commitments pushed him to manage his time effectively and to understand when and how to seek support. This skill has continued to serve him well.
When asked for advice to give current Marianapolis students, Lucas emphasizes the importance of embracing opportunities. “Trying different things and taking advantage of different opportunities will help to determine what career path you want to take,” says Lucas.
“Also, talking to different people and building your network as early as possible is something that will benefit you as you move forward with your career,” he adds.
Following in the footsteps of his mother and sister, both Marianapolis graduates, Lucas is proud to continue the family legacy and contribute to the alumni network. Their success inspires him, and he recognizes that Marianapolis played a meaningful role in shaping all three of their journeys.
Lucas has embraced every opportunity for personal and professional growth while reflecting on the experiences and mentorship that have shaped his path. We look forward to seeing Lucas continue to shine in his endeavours and are grateful to have him as a valued member of our Golden Knight family!