Courtesy of University of Northwestern
ST. PAUL, Minn. -- The University of Northwestern is thrilled to announce the hiring of Sarah Connally, who has been selected to serve as the head women's lacrosse coach. Connally hails from the University of Texas where she coached the Longhorns club team for the past seven seasons.
"I'm looking forward to the challenges and opportunities ahead at Northwestern. It is encouraging and exciting to get to dive into a new role among a community of believers," stated Connally.
At the helm, Sarah will be leading the Eagles in just their fourth season of NCAA Division III lacrosse. Northwestern will return 16 student-athletes for the 2019 spring season.
Connally brings a wealth of lacrosse experience to St. Paul. A 2009 graduate of Liberty University, she was a decorated, four-year starting goalie for the Flames – earning the Defensive Player of the Year nod in 2006.
Connally received her coaching start at McNeil High School (Austin, Tex.) where she served as the Head Coach from 2009 to 2014. Starting the program from the ground up, she led the Mavericks to a 2014 district runner-up finish. Meanwhile, Connally was chosen to lead the 2012 Team Texas High School National Team and began her stint as the Goalie Coach for the University of Texas women's club lacrosse program.
Connally found her stride in the collegiate realm, progressing from Goalie Coach to Assistant Coach and finally Head Coach in 2016 at UT. A few coaching highlights include six team state champions with the University of Texas, seven top-twenty ranked seasons and five top-ten finishes. She produced a Player of the Year (2012), Defender of the Year (2013), Rookie of the Year and Defender of the Year (2015) and Midfielder of the Year (2016).
Director of Athletics, Dr. Matt Hill commented on the hire stating, "I am excited to welcome Sarah to the Northwestern community. She brings a wealth of lacrosse experience with her, both as a player and a coach. With the Eagles starting their first year in the Midwest Women's Lacrosse Conference, the future looks bright for our lacrosse program."
Connally and her husband, Jake Linebarger will be making the transition to Minnesota within the next week. Outside of lacrosse, they enjoy spending time with their dogs, fishing, camping and watching football. She will officially assume her position at Northwestern on October 22.