The Philadelphia Wings today named Blane Harrison Offensive Coordinator and inaugural Wings Head Coach, Bob Allen Director of Player Development.  Combined they will bring over 60 years of playing and coaching experience to the team.

Harrison has coached on the professional, collegiate and youth levels, including a stint as Assistant Coach at Michigan State University, and two seasons as Assistant Coach with the Detroit Turbos (NLL).  Most recently, he spent three NLL seasons as the Assistant Coach for the Orlando Titans.  In his playing career, Harrison won the Mann Cup twice and the Merv McKenzie award as the MSL’s top defensive player three times with the Brooklin Redmen. He also made two Minto Cup appearances with the Whitby Warriors, and played one season with the Detroit Turbos.  He also played with Michael French and was coached by Bob Allan on the Canadian National Team in 1982.

“My entire indoor playing experience consisted of playing both offense and defense,” said Harrison.  “Consequently, I hope to leverage this experience with the Wings organization, specifically working with our tremendously talented offense and supporting John Tucker's overall strategy.”

"The Wings franchise took another leap forward today with the addition of Blane to our coaching staff,” said Head Coach John Tucker. He is incredibly knowledgeable and has the experience and expertise to direct our offense to new heights. Blane has a track record of successful performance as both player and coach. We are extremely fortunate to have him behind the bench this season."

Allan played all levels of junior and professional Box Lacrosse in Canada and has been regarded as one of the best lacrosse players of the late 1950s and 60s.  He was the Mann Cup Scoring Leader from 1966 to 1974, winning six total championships as a player and coach.  In 1978 Allan coached the World Lacrosse National Team and has been inducted to both the Ontario and Canadian Lacrosse Halls of Fame.

“Bobby Allan is one of the most knowledgeable lacrosse minds in North America and as our Director of Player Development was very instrumental in our player procurement plan and the development of our principles, tactics and teachings for our players and coaches during the San Jose/Washington Stealth Championship transformation,” said Wings General Manager Johnny Mouradian. “In addition, he was the first coach of the Philadelphia Wings back in 1974 and coached the Canadian National Field Team to the 1978 championship.   He is also credited with originating the back hand pass and shot as a player back in the 60’s.”

"This is another step in establishing a new level of energy, determination, character, and grit for the Philadelphia Wings with the addition of Blane and Bobby,” said Wings Owner Michael French. The ownership is extremely enthused about the new leadership team that is now in place.”