Sports
Lion Pride: 5 Unforgettable Athletes From Lacey Township High School
From local fields to national fame, these stars got their start in Lacey.

Sports run deep in Lacey, and Lacey Township High School has long been at the heart of it. It’s no surprise some standout talent once wore the Lion uniform. Today we're celebrating five unforgettable athletes from Lacey Township High School who made a name for themselves well beyond the hometown field.
1. Keith Elias — Former NFL Running Back (New York Giants & Indianapolis Colts)
A former Lion All-American, Elias went on to play football for Princeton University, where he earned multiple Ivy League recognitions. He later signed as a free agent with the New York Giants in 1994 before ending his NFL career with the Indianapolis Colts five years later. (Source: ESPN.com)
2. Chris Fleming — Professional Basketball Player & Coach (University of Alabama)
Fleming played basketball overseas for a couple of seasons before beginning his coaching career in 2000, where he had stints overseas and in the NBA for multiple years. He is currently an assistant coach at the University of Alabama. (Source: RollTide.com)
Find out what's happening in Laceyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
3. Kailee Howard — Lion Rookie of the Year & First-Team All-State
A notable 2020 Lacey alum, Howard had a spectacular high school career capped off with a First-Team All-State selection her junior season. She continued her athletic career at Rutgers University. (Source: Patch.com)
4. Warren Smith — Two-Time AFL League MVP & Champion
During his time as a Lion, Smith led the team to three straight state titles with one victory. He continued his winning streak in the Arena Football League, capturing two league MVPs and Championships. He recently accepted a position as head coach at Absegami High School in Galloway after 12 years as Lacey's assistant coach. (CourierPostOnline.com)
Find out what's happening in Laceyfor free with the latest updates from Patch.
5. Ava Colasanti — Cross Country Runner & American Ninja Warrior
Colasanti was a member of the Lions Cross Country team but made a name for herself by being selected to compete on NBC’s American Ninja Warrior as a sophomore in 2021. In her first of two seasons on the show, she qualified for the finals and finished sixth overall for female competitors. She currently works as a coach at Centercourt Club and Sports in Lawrence. (Source: JerseyShoreOnline.com)
This content is brought to our community by T-Mobile.