Alabama Soccer Hires Katie Barnes as Assistant Coach
1/26/2004 12:00:00 AM | Soccer
 |
|
The University of Alabama head women’s soccer coach Don Staley has announced the hiring of WUSA standout Katie Barnes to fill the vacant assistant coaching spot, thus completing his staff for the 2004 season.
Barnes, who is currently a member of the US National Pool, was the ninth overall pick (1st pick, 2nd round) in the 2002 WUSA draft by the Carolina Courage and helped lead the team to the regular season championships and the WUSA Founders Cup Championship.
She was then signed by the San Jose CyberRays for the 2003 season and was nominated for the 2003 WUSA All-Star Game.
“I was thrilled to get this opportunity from Coach Staley,” said Barnes. “This is something I’ve anticipated for a while and I’m excited because I think this will be a great mix of coaching expertise with Coach Staley and Coach Patterson.”
A 2002 graduate of West Virginia University, Barnes said her decision was influenced by Staley’s knack for helping his assistants move on to head coaching positions at other schools.
“Coach Staley’s success was a major factor. I just plan on being a big sponge and soaking up the experience.”
A three-time All-American while playing at WVU, Barnes’ soccer resume ranks among the very best. A four-year starter, she was a three-time All Mid-Atlantic performer, two-time Big East Offensive Player of the Year and she currently holds or shares 17 school records. She was named the best Captain on campus for all WVU athletic programs and has been inducted in the Mountaineer Honorary Club for academics and athletics. Her efforts in college also got her selected to the Umbro Senior All-Star Game and she was also a nominee for NCAA Female Student Athlete of the Year.
“The hiring of Katie Barnes completes the last step in building a cohesive staff,” said Staley. “She brings significant accolades from both her collegiate days and professional experience. She will also bring class, integrity and a competitive spirit that should help contribute to our future success.”
Prior to coming to the Capstone, Barnes was a volunteer assistant for WVU in the 2002 season and last season she spent her time coaching the Cincinnati United Premier soccer club.
She will join the Crimson Tide staff full-time on March 1.
