2 Upper Dublin Coaches Earn Prestigious Honors

FORT WASHINGTON, PA — Two Upper Dublin coaches have recently received some prestigious athletic achievements.

Girls’ Lacrosse Coach Dee Cross will be inducted into the Montgomery County Coaches Hall of Fame (Class of 2025), and Girls’ Swim Coach Brandon Pierce has been named the 2025 Pennsylvania AAA Girls’ Coach of the Year by the Pennsylvania High School Swim Coaches Association (PHSSCA).

Coach Dee Cross

Now in her 31st year leading girls’ lacrosse — 13 at Abington and 18 at Upper Dublin — Coach Cross has amassed a 323–216–9 career record, including 233–97 at Upper Dublin.

Her teams have captured nine Suburban One League championships, made 15 District 1 appearances, and reached the PIAA state tournament three times, while she has coached five All-Americans.

“While I’m proud of our championships at Upper Dublin, what stands out most to me are the relationships — watching players grow into amazing women and, in some cases, now coaching the daughters of my former athletes," Cross said. "I’ve been blessed with dedicated assistants, supportive administrators, and incredible players. This recognition is truly special, and I’m grateful to share it with everyone who has been part of my journey.”

Her current and former players feel the same impact.

“Coach Cross is such an amazing coach and person,” said Maeve Hogan, a UDHS student-athlete. “She really cares about all of the girls she coaches and creates a great team culture where everyone works hard and competes but also really enjoys playing together.”

Upper Dublin Alumna Anna DiMartile, now playing lacrosse for the University of Florida, said, “I could talk forever about the kind of coach and person Coach Cross is. Her kind personality and work ethic consistently motivated me to do better each day. What she has been able to teach me has made me a better person on and off the field. I am forever in debt to Coach Dee Cross.”

Coach Brandon Pierce

Coach Brandon Pierce, entering his 14th season at Upper Dublin and fifth as head coach of the girls’ swim team, has guided the Cardinals to back-to-back district titles, a 2024 state runner-up finish, and the 2025 state championship.

His teams have also gone undefeated in dual meets for three consecutive years, holding an impressive 28-0 record.

“Being recognized with this award is truly humbling, but it’s not just about me,” Coach Pierce said. “It’s about our entire Upper Dublin swimming and diving family — our staff, our athletes, and the families who support us. This award reflects the collective effort of so many people, and I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of it.”

Swimmers credit him with fostering both excellence and camaraderie.

“Coach Brandon has never failed to keep us motivated and confident to believe in our abilities,” said Olivia Auwarter, a member of the team.

Fellow teammate Madeline Shapiro added, “He is the absolute best at working us hard in the pool while also keeping a fun atmosphere. He’s built such a tight-bonded team, and we can all tell how much he cares about us.”

UDHS Principal Daniel Ortiz, Ed.D., praised both honorees.

“We could not be more proud of Coach Cross and Coach Pierce," Ortiz said. "Their commitment to student-athletes extends far beyond the pool or the field — they foster teamwork, perseverance, and personal growth. These recognitions are a testament to their exceptional leadership and the
positive impact they have on our school community.”