Women's Soccer | July 27, 2017

PHILADELPHIA – Former La Salle women's soccer standout and 2016 NWSL Champion Courtney Nieimiec has joined the women's soccer staff as an assistant coach, head coach Paul Royal announced Wednesday.
 
"We are delighted to add arguably the most accomplished player in the history of the program to our coaching staff," said Royal. "After playing four seasons in the National Women's Soccer League, which is the top women's pro league in the world, Courtney decided the timing was right to begin her career in coaching and further her education by attending graduate school at La Salle."
 
Niemic recently retired from the North Carolina Courage in May, capping a career that began with the Portland Thorns (2014-15) and included a season with the Western New York Flash (2016). The Philadelphia native helped the Flash to their first-ever NWSL Championship last season, and is the only A-10 women's soccer alum to compete in the NWSL in each of the last four seasons.
 
"I am excited to be on the coaching side and even more excited to finally give back to La Salle University and the women's soccer program," Niemiec said. "La Salle is a place that I hold very dear to my heart."
 
Niemiec helped the Explorers to three NCAA Tournament appearances and a 58-21-9 record over her four years at 20^th and Olney. The Littler Flower Catholic grad earned Atlantic 10 Defensive Player of the Year recognition in 2012 and first team all-conference honors during the 2013 season.
 
"It's pretty amazing when you have the opportunity to hire not only a former standout player, but someone with so many great experiences at the professional level," added Royal. "Her knowledge and playing acumen along with her high character and personality make this a wonderful fit for our university and program."
 
La Salle opens preseason camp on August 3 ahead of their 2017 season opener against St. John's at McCarthy Stadium on August 18.