Women's Soccer | 3/4/2025 3:54:00 PM
UTICA, NY – SUNY Poly Athletic Director John Czarnecki is pleased to announce the hiring of Colleen McTygue as the new Head Women's Soccer Coach. With over 25 years of coaching experience, McTygue brings a wealth of knowledge, passion, and a proven track record of success to the program. Her extensive career includes leading teams to conference championships, NCAA tournament appearances, and fostering the academic and athletic development of student-athletes.
"We are thrilled to welcome Coach McTygue to SUNY Poly," said Czarnecki John Czarnecki. "Her deep experience in college coaching, her commitment to student-athlete success, and her ability to build strong relationships within the community make her the perfect fit for our program. We look forward to the growth and success of our women's soccer team under her leadership."
McTygue's coaching career includes notable roles such as Head Women's Soccer Coach at Averett University (2017-2019), and Head Women's Soccer Coach at SUNY New Paltz (1997-2016). During her tenure at SUNY New Paltz, she led the team to a conference championship and an NCAA tournament Sweet 16 appearance in 2011. Her ability to recruit, develop talent, and create a strong team culture contributed to her success on the field.
In addition to her coaching accomplishments, McTygue has developed a strong reputation for her emphasis on academic achievement. She created an Academic Success Program aimed at ensuring her student-athletes excel both on the field and in the classroom.
"I am thrilled to accept the position of Head Women's Soccer Coach at SUNY Poly," said McTygue. "The exceptional facilities, dedicated staff, and robust support system here are truly invaluable assets. I eagerly anticipate working with the team and embarking on this new journey while becoming an integral part of this wonderful community."
McTygue's coaching journey also includes experience at the middle school level. Most recently, she served as the Boys Soccer Coach at Kernodle Middle School in North Carolina, where she led the team to a conference championship in 2024. Her background in teaching and sports management, including her role as Sports Director at the YMCA in Ragsdale, North Carolina, has further enhanced her skills in program management, budgeting, and event planning.
A former professional soccer player, McTygue played for prestigious clubs such as Arsenal and Millwall FC in the Women's Professional League in England. She holds a Master's degree in Educational Administration with a concentration in Higher Education Leadership from SUNY New Paltz and a Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice from Plattsburgh State University.
ABOUT THE EMPIRE 8 CONFERENCE
The members of the Empire 8 Conference are committed first and foremost to the pursuit of academic excellence and the league is regarded as an outstanding NCAA Division III conference. The membership has distinguished itself among its peer group for its quality institutions, spirited and sportsmanlike competition, outstanding services and highly ethical policies and practices. Its commitment to serve the educational needs of its student-athletes is the hallmark of the E8. For more on the Empire 8 visit www.empire8.com and YouTube
EMPIRE 8 SOCIAL MEDIA
YouTube – Facebook – Twitter – Instagram