UTICA, N.Y. – The SUNY Poly Athletics Department is pleased to announce the appointment of Katie LaClaire as the Head Women's Volleyball Coach for the upcoming 2023 season.
Katie's journey at SUNY Poly began during the 2017-18 season when she assumed the role of Head Men's Volleyball Coach. Over the course of her five-year tenure, her teams had a record of 48-56, including an impressive 18-11 in team play. Under her guidance, her teams consistently earned post-season berths, with notable semifinal appearances in 2018 and 2022. Her coaching prowess also shone through as she nurtured 13 players to All-Conference Team distinctions and facilitated four players in securing weekly awards.
Reflecting on this appointment, Athletic Director Megan Valentine expressed, "SUNY Poly Athletics welcomes back Katie LaClaire as she embarks on her new journey as the Head Coach of our Women's Volleyball program. We eagerly anticipate the program's growth under her leadership. We also extend our gratitude to Juleah Wanner, who devoted six years to her role as the program's head coach. Both coaches exemplify unwavering dedication to the development of our student-athletes both on and off the court. This commitment is truly valued, and we're brimming with excitement for the forthcoming season!"
Katie's comprehensive experience extends beyond her time at SUNY Poly. She has also served as the Hamilton College Athletic Event & Travel Coordinator, the SUNY Poly Women's Volleyball Assistant Coach, and a Strength and Conditioning Coach at OB Training and Sports Performance.
Katie holds a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Physiology from SUNY Brockport, where she also played as an Outside Hitter for the Golden Eagles. Notably, Katie is a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS), a certification from the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA).
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About SUNY Polytechnic Institute (SUNY Poly)
SUNY Poly is charting a path to become New York State's and the nation's premier public polytechnic. The university offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in technology, including engineering, cybersecurity, computer science, and the engineering technologies; professional studies, including business, communication, and nursing; and arts and sciences, including natural sciences, game design, mathematics, humanities, and social sciences at its campus located in Utica. Complementing the campus experience and our hands-on approach to providing an affordable, targeted education for in-demand careers, you will also find thriving athletic, recreational, and cultural programs, events, and activities. For more information visit www.sunypoly.edu.