BRISTOL, R.I. – Roger Williams University Director of Athletics, Intramurals, and Recreation Kiki Jacobs has announced the hiring of Katy LaBella as the sixth Head Coach in program history of the women's soccer program.
 
"We are very excited to have Katy join the Roger Williams Athletic Department.  She made an immediate connection with the staff and student-athletes during her interview," said Jacobs. "Her desire to build relationships with the student-athletes, the department, and alumni base was evident during her campus visit."
 
Labella joins the staff after a four-year stint at Division I University of Rhode Island (URI), where she served as an assistant coach. LaBella most recently served on a staff that saw the Rams reach the Atlantic 10 (A-10) Tournament for the second time in the last three seasons, posting a 4-3-3 record within the A-10.
 
In 2021 the Rams also reached the A-10 Tournament for the first time since the 2016 season. During the stint at URI, LaBella assisted in creation of team tactics, scouting, and recruitment efforts.
 
Prior to her stint at URI, LaBella held prior Division III coaching experience serving as an assistant at Wheaton College from 2017-2019, where the Lyons held an overall record of 34-16-6, with a 17-12-2 record in New England Women's and Men's Athletic Conference (NEWMAC) play.  The Lyons reached three consecutive NEWMAC Tournaments.
 
Prior to Wheaton, LaBella began her collegiate coaching career at fellow Commonwealth Coast Conference (CCC) institution Wentworth, where she was a part of the Leopards, lone CCC Title in program history, with a 16-4-3 season and unbeaten record in conference play going 7-0-2, before falling in the second round of the NCAA Tournament.
 
"I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Athletic Director Kiki Jacobs, Vice President for Student Life Dr. John King, and the entire search committee for entrusting me with this incredible opportunity," spoke LaBella. "I am honored and excited to lead this talented group of student-athletes in their pursuit of excellence on and off the field. Together, we will build a culture of teamwork, dedication, and relentless pursuit of success. I look forward to not only developing skilled athletes, but also empowering them to reach their full potential. I'm eager to learn and grow together with the Roger Williams community, and working collaboratively to provide a rich experience that instills pride in Roger Williams University."
 
LaBella will begin her tenure with the Hawks in mid-January.