BRYN ATHYN, Pa - After building the Bryn Athyn College field hockey team for the last four seasons, Katie Fitzgerald has decided to step down as the Lions head coach to pursue opportunities outside of college athletics. Fitzgerald's resignation was accepted by Interim Director of Athletics Dr. Suzanne Nelson Friday.
"As the person who started the program, the field hockey team will be forever linked to Coach Fitzgerald. We are grateful for her contribution to our student-athletes and her efforts within the department. On behalf of the entire college community, we wish Katie success in her future endeavors," said Nelson.
With Coach Fitzgerald stepping down, Assistant Coach Heather Schauder will be stepping into the role as head coach in a part time capacity. Schauder has been the right hand woman to Fitzgerald for the last two seasons. Schauder is no stranger to Bryn Athyn. She was born and raised right here in Bryn Athyn and attended Academy of the New Church where she was an accomplished field hockey player. Her talents took her to Roanoke College where she was the starting goalie. During her time at Roanoke College, she was named Old Dominion Athletic Conference First Team all-conference performer. She was also named Virginia Sports Information Directors (VaSID) All-State second team in 2015. Schauder graduated from Roanoke in spring 2019 with a bachelor's degree in sports management. Upon graduating from Roanoke College, Schauder accepted the assistant coach position in the Bryn Athyn Field Hockey program.
"It brings me great pleasure that Heather has decided to step into this leadership role as Head Coach," former head coach Katie Fitzgerald said. "She brings quality, versatility, and experience not only as a high caliber player during her collegiate career, but also as a skilled coach and recruiter. I am especially proud of her proven ability to successfully handle various aspects of our program during her time as an assistant."
"I am extremely honored to take over as head coach for the Bryn Athyn Field Hockey program. I have assisted Coach Katie for the last two years, and I am excited to carry on her legacy and continue to grow the amazing program she started building in 2016. I'm ready to put in work to continue to make this team as great as it can be!"
Interim Director of Athletics, Dr. Suzanne Nelson, said, " I am excited that Heather has stepped into her new role with passion and enthusiasm to provide continuity and stability for our current players and recruits. I am looking forward to work with her to develop the program further."
Bryn Athyn Field Hockey looks forward to their return to competition in fall 2021.