KANSAS CITY, Mo. – After its best season in over a decade, the Santa Clara women's soccer coaching staff was honored with the West Region Staff of the Year award Tuesday by United Soccer Coaches.
Head coach Jerry Smith, associate head coach Gregg Murphy, assistant coach Curtis McAlister, and volunteer assistant Brandi Chastain helped guide the Broncos to their most wins (17) since 2005 as well as their most regular season wins (16) and nonconference wins (9) since the national title season of 2001.
They coached the West Coast Conference Player of the Year and MAC Hermann Trophy semifinalist in Kelcie Hedge in addition to six others that brought home all-conference honors. Four were also named First Team All-West Region, including Maria Sanchez who leads the nation with 16 assists.
Smith, who just completed his 32nd year at the helm, has amassed 482 career wins while making 10 College Cup appearances.
Murphy, in his 12th season, works with both the attacking and defending players while also doing some international recruiting.
McAlister, in his 16th season, is the recruiting coordinator and works with the goalkeepers.
Chastain, in her ninth season, is best remembered for her time with the U.S. National Team but works on the general needs of the players on a daily basis.
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