Kathi Welch serves as a Junior Varsity Coach and Assistant Varsity Coach for the Apex High School Girls Lacrosse program, bringing nearly two decades of coaching experience and a lifelong connection to the sport. Originally from Medford, New Jersey, Coach Welch was a standout lacrosse athlete, competing as a defensive midfielder and earning a New Jersey State Championship in 1989. She holds bachelor’s degrees in Education and English as well as a Master of Education from The College of New Jersey, and maintains all required North Carolina teaching and coaching certifications.

Coach Welch began her coaching journey while in college, volunteering at a local high school through her involvement as a Young Life leader. Her coaching philosophy centers on teaching strong fundamentals, teamwork, and the importance of working hard for something greater than oneself. She values effort, commitment, and resilience, and takes pride in helping athletes grow through challenges while learning the value of selflessness and team success.

Before joining Apex, Coach Welch served as a JV lacrosse coach at Hopewell Valley Regional High School in Pennington, New Jersey. What she enjoys most about coaching is watching athletes try something new and experience success, even when the process is challenging. Coach Welch has a deep connection to the Apex community, with all three of her children having competed in sports at Apex High School. Outside of coaching, she enjoys adventuring with her husband and family, hiking, kayaking, spending time outdoors, and reading.