From University of Chicago Athletics
he University of Denver announced on Wednesday that the Pioneers have hired Julianne Sitch as their next head women's soccer coach. Sitch led the University of Chicago men's soccer program during the 2022-23 academic year.
Sitch's debut season at the helm of the Maroon men concluded in historic fashion. The 2022 squad proved unstoppable all season long, winning the program's first NCAA Division III National Championship with an undefeated 22-0-1 record. Along the way, UChicago claimed the University Athletic Association (UAA) title with a 6-0-1 mark in conference play. Sitch and her assistant coaches were named the United Soccer Coaches' National Coaching Staff of the Year, USC Region VIII Coaching Staff of the Year and UAA Coaching Staff of the Year. Sitch was also selected as the D3soccer.com Coach of the Year.
"I want to thank Angie Torain for believing in me and hiring me to lead the men's soccer program at UChicago," Sitch said. "I am beyond thankful for the department welcoming me back into the Maroon family and all the support throughout our season. UChicago is a special place, and I am forever grateful for the memories created here both on and off the field. The program will continue to be successful, and I wish the athletes all the best."
A smothering defense was UChicago's calling card in 2022, as the Maroons registered more shutouts (13) than goals allowed (11). The team ranked seventh in the nation with a 0.474 goals against average. On the offensive side of the ball, the Maroons posted 51 goals (2.22 per game) with nine different multi-goal scorers. Three players earned All-American status, and the team's accolades also included five All-Region honorees, seven All-UAA accolades and three Academic All-America awards.
Previous to her time with the men, Sitch served as an assistant coach with the UChicago women's soccer team from 2015-17 and again in 2019.
"We are thankful for the season that we had with Sitch as the head coach of the men's soccer program and a member of our athletics department," said Director of Athletics & Recreation Angie Torain. "She taught us all how to have a Champion Mindset in everything we do, and we wish her well going forward."