NORFOLK, Va. -- Natalie Holder has been promoted to Associate Head Coach of the Old Dominion field hockey program, head coach Andrew Griffiths announced on Tuesday.
"We have been lucky to have Natalie as a coach with our program at ODU for the past six years," said Griffiths. "She is an extremely hard worker and a committed and loyal coach. She is always the first one into the office and team room in the morning, and our players and staff hold her in high regard."
For the past six seasons, Holder has served as an assistant coach under Griffiths. During the six-year tenure, the Monarchs have won 58 games, including a 2013 Big East Championship and NCAA Tournament appearance. In addition, Holder has helped coach 14 different players to all-conference honors and three to All-American accolades.
"I would like to thank Andrew and the Administration for this promotion," said Holder. "Andrew and I have worked side-by-side for the last six years and I am very grateful for his friendship and mentorship. I am really excited about where we are as a team. Our culture and level of hockey is very strong. I cannot wait to watch this team compete in the fall. I am 100 percent committed to them and ODU and excited for the years ahead."
Holder works closely with the ODU attack and also serves as the team's recruiting coordinator. The Scotland native is involved in all aspects of the program, from camps and clinics to day-to-day operations in the field hockey office.
"Within our team, we know her as someone who will work tirelessly to get things done, a determined and reliable coach," continued Griffiths. "Externally, she is an exceptional ambassador for ODU and our field hockey program, and is also highly respected throughout the NCAA coaching community. This promotion is a well-deserved recognition of her contributions to the university, our team and individually to all of our student-athletes."
ODU went 10-7 last year and reached a high ranking of No. 11 in the nation. The Monarchs return all but three starters, including All-Big East performers Erin Huffman and Rebecca Birch.
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