The Intercollegiate Women's Lacrosse Coaches Association (IWLCA) announced earlier today that Samantha Keary of the University of Redlands has been named the 2017 NCAA Division III Assistant Coach of the Year. In addition, University of Pennsylvania's Kerri Whitaker and Mercy College's Joe Corace received the honor for the other divisions.
After competing for the Bulldogs as a dual-sport athlete in lacrosse and soccer, Keary returned to her alma mater as an assistant lacrosse coach. During the 2017 season, the Bulldogs posted a 9-8 record and advanced to the SCIAC Postseason Tournament in the event's inaugural year.
"I am certain there are many coaches deserving of this award, so I am beyond honored and grateful to be recognized among such a talented group of individuals," said Keary, who helped mentor two All-Region first-team honorees in Quinn Egan and Hanna Morford, and two second-team selections in Lacey Bjorndal and Dulce Moll last season. Keary added, "I am honored to be a part of a Bulldog family who supports me each and every day."
At Redlands, Keary serves as the team's defensive coordinator, spearheads the recruiting efforts, and manages the team's academic success program and their social media accounts. Outside of coaching, Keary brings a team-first mentality to every aspect of the athletic department.
Head Coach Suzette Soboti nominated her for this award, which recognizes an assistant coach from each division who has made a distinct impact on the success of their program through hard work, commitment, dedication, and sportsmanship, as stated in the IWLCA release.
Soboti commented, "We are so proud of Samantha and this recognition of all she does to serve our student-athletes. She was a two-sport athlete for me and I knew then we had a special person in our programs. Sam has exceeded expectations consistently and has elevated all those around her. The University of Redlands and our women's lacrosse program are beyond grateful for Samantha and her contributions – now the whole lacrosse community knows Sam Keary is a superstar!"
Keary will be recognized for this prestigious award at the IWLCA Honors Banquet on November 15 at Disney's Coronado Springs Resort.
For the complete release, please visit the IWLCA website.