Murphy Named Head Women’s Soccer Coach At Fitchburg State

Murphy becomes seventh head coach in program history

FITCHBURG, Mass. (February 15, 2012) – Fitchburg State University has named Shannon Murphy as the seventh head coach in the history of the women's soccer program this afternoon. The announcement was made by Sue Lauder, Director of Athletics at the University.

"I am very pleased to name Shannon Murphy as the new head women's soccer coach at Fitchburg State University," said Lauder. "I am very happy to have Shannon join us in a new role and look forward to working with her.  Having seen her work as an assistant coach, I'm confident that she will be successful."

"I am thrilled to be given this amazing opportunity," said Murphy. For the past two seasons, I was fortunate to have been able to work under Coach Walberg as an assistant coach. I know that I have some big shoes to fill but I am excited to take on the challenge."

Murphy takes over the reigns as the head women's soccer coach at Fitchburg State after serving the past two years on the sideline as an assistant coach. Murphy joined the Fitchburg State coaching staff in 2010 after completing a four-year career with NCAA Division II powerhouse, The College of Saint Rose.

At Saint Rose, Murphy served as a standout goalkeeper, leading Saint Rose to four consecutive Northeast-10 (NE-10) Championships and four NCAA Tournament appearances. She was a five-time recipient of the Northeast-10 Goalkeeper of the Week honor and a two-time ECAC Goalkeeper of the Week, while breaking the College's all-time single season record for victories with 18 in 2008.

During the 2008 season, Murphy led Saint Rose to the 2008 NCAA Division II Women's Soccer Championships in Tampa, Fla., where the Golden Knights advanced to the Final Four match vs. University of West Florida. Throughout the playoff run, Murphy was named to the Northeast-10 All-Tournament team (NE-10 Most Outstanding Player), while also garnering NSCAA Adidas All-Region first team honors.

In addition to her accolades on the field, Murphy was also recognized for her work in the classroom, being named to the 2010 Northeast-10 Commissioner's Honor Roll. She was a four-time member of the Dean's List, while completing her Bachelor of Science degree in Childhood Education/Special Education.

Murphy will assume all head coaching duties effectively immediately.