Mike Maltais ’91 had the honor of being the first lacrosse player to be inducted into the Clark University Athletic Hall of Fame.
One of the most dominant offensive players in the program's history, he helped lead the transition of the sport from the club level to varsity status during his four-year tenure (1988-91). “Mike helped to provide legitimacy for the program during our transition to the varsity level,” said John Stephans, who coached Maltais for three seasons (1989-91) at Clark. “He was not only the most talented player at the university, but also one of the top attackmen in New England Division III lacrosse.”
A native of East Greenbush, N.Y., Maltais was a fierce competitor who developed into a three-time Patriot League all-star (1989, 1990, 1991), an All-New England East/West All-Star (1991) and two-time team Most Valuable Player (1990, 1991).
He also set all of Clark's single game, season, and career scoring records, many of which still stand today. In addition, Maltais received the Fred Hebert Award, presented to a male senior athlete for outstanding contribution to the Clark University athletic program.
As a two-year team captain, Maltais was a leader both on and off the field. “Mike was the unquestioned leader of our team, and an undisputed leader on campus,” said Stephans. “I was always impressed by how universally well-liked he was by students from all campus sectors.” Once on the lacrosse field, however, Maltais was all business. With his “take no prisoners” attitude he became the Cougars’ all-time leading scorer with 98 goals, 80 assists, and 178 points.
Since earning a bachelor's degree in geography from Clark, Maltais has remained involved in sport and fitness activities. After a short stint as Clark’s head lacrosse coach from 1997-98, he started his own business servicing exercise equipment in the greater Massachusetts area.
A well-rounded athlete, he also has been a certified cycling coach and was a national ski patrol member. In addition, Maltais has been involved in numerous charity events, including mechanical support for the American Diabetes Charity Bike Ride (1999-2002) and the Courage Classic Charity Ride for a children’s hospital in Denver, Colo. (2000-02).
Maltais and his wife, Dr. Eileen Early Maltais, have two children, Riley and Isabella.
