The New York Shockers Women’s Premier Soccer (WPSL) Team is proud to announce Laurie Darling Gutheil

as its new Head Coach. With an extraordinary track record of success, Darling brings over two decades

of elite coaching experience to the Shockers, combining a deep understanding of the game with a

proven ability to develop players at the highest levels.

 

Coaching Philosophy

Laurie Darling Gutheil emphasizes a balanced approach to coaching, focusing on technical

excellence, tactical intelligence, and fostering a positive team culture. Known for her ability to

inspire players both on and off the field, Darling is committed to helping each athlete reach their

full potential while promoting teamwork and sportsmanship.

 

 

 

Career Highlights

Coaching Experience: Darling served as the head coach at Saint Rose, where she led the team to unparalleled success.

 

Achievements:

• 2011 NCAA Division II National Champion.

• 2021 NCAA National Finalist.

• Reached NCAA National Final Four in 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2014, 2019, and 2021.

• Set Northeast 10 Conference records with 11 tournament championships and 11 regular season championships in 23 years.

• Maintained a winning percentage of .810, ranking 22nd in NCAA history with 428 wins (men and women).

• Ranked 4th in NCAA history among female coaches and 3rd for female coaches in NCAA Division II history.

• Developed 3 Division II National Players of the Year and 9 professional soccer players since 2012.

• Chaired the United Soccer Coaches East Region All-American Committee (2008-2024)

• Received United Soccer Coaches Pinnacle Award in 2019, 2021, and 2023.

• Developed 60 All-Americans during her career.

 

Darling Gutheil went on to coach at The College of St. Rose for 28 seasons, guiding the Golden Knights to 11 regular season conference championships, 11 conference tournament championships, eight Final Fours, two NCAA Finals, and the Division II NCAA National Championship in 2011.  She is currently one of the all-time winningest coaches in NCAA history.

 

Hall of Fame Induction 

In 2024 Darling Gutheil was inducted into the Hartwick College Hall of Fame.  Darling Gutheil played four

seasons for the Hawks, earning All-State and All-EAA honors in 1994.  She was also a part of Hartwick’s 1992

ECAC Championship squad.

 

 

 

Player Development and Academic Excellence

Darling’s impact on player development is equally impressive, with 68 student-athletes earning 118 All-Conference honors and 23 players achieving 54 All-America awards under her tutelage. She has prioritized both athletic excellence and academic achievement, with 18 players recognized as Academic All-Americans during her tenure.

 

Her commitment to creating well-rounded athletes extends beyond the field. Darling organized multiple European summer tours to expose players to different soccer cultures while fostering their growth on and off the field. These tours to countries such as England, France, Monaco, Belgium, Italy, Germany, and Slovenia provided valuable competitive and educational experiences for her teams.

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A History of Excellence and Championships

Darling’s coaching journey includes countless milestones, including the Golden Knights’ impressive 2011

campaign, where they claimed the National Championship with a thrilling comeback win against

two-time defending champions Grand Valley State. That season, Saint Rose set school records with 24

victories and 90 goals, finishing as the top team in the nation in goal-scoring offense. In 2023 Darling

Gutheil led her team to 20-0-2 record before losing in pk’s In the round of sweet 16.

 

Her teams have consistently excelled, winning 11 NE10 Conference Tournament Championships and 10 regular season championships in 23 years earning national rankings year after year. Darling’s program at Saint Rose had become synonymous with excellence, both academically and athletically.

 

Vision for the New York Shockers

Darling’s success is rooted in her ability to blend tactical sophistication, individual player development, and team culture. Her philosophy is built on hard work, discipline, and a focus on creating a winning environment where players can excel both on the field and in life.

 

Her passion for soccer, combined with her deep commitment to the development of women’s sports, makes her an invaluable asset to the New York Shockers. With Darling at the helm, the Shockers are poised to continue their ascent in the WPSL, competing at the highest level and building on her legacy of success.