Newberry SC, October 5, 2025
News Summary
Newberry College has appointed Kace Sternkopf as the head coach for its women’s lacrosse team, following her successful tenure as an assistant coach. During her two years in that role, Sternkopf guided the team to a combined 23-14 record, achieving semifinals in the South Atlantic Conference Tournament. Her background includes successful stints at Barton College and playing experience at Mount Olive, complemented by strong academic credentials. Sternkopf’s leadership aims to further elevate the program’s achievements and foster a competitive environment.
Newberry, South Carolina – Kace Sternkopf Appointed Head Coach of Newberry College Women’s Lacrosse Team
Newberry College has officially appointed Kace Sternkopf as the head coach of the women’s lacrosse team, marking a significant transition within the program. Sternkopf, who originated from West Islip, N.Y., has been part of the Newberry College coaching staff as an assistant for the past two years.
During her tenure as an assistant coach, Sternkopf contributed to the team’s successful performance, leading the Wolves to a strong combined record of 23-14 overall and 16-5 in the South Atlantic Conference (SAC). Under her guidance, Newberry College advanced to the SAC Tournament semifinals during both seasons she served in the role. Last season, the women’s lacrosse team recorded an impressive 13-6 overall record and a 9-2 mark in the SAC, tying the school record for the most wins in a single season.
Sternkopf expressed her gratitude for being entrusted with the leadership of the program and conveyed excitement about the team’s talent moving forward. The appointment is set against a backdrop of support from the college’s administration, with Vice President for Athletics Sean Johnson commending Sternkopf’s leadership qualities and her emphasis on the holistic development of student-athletes. Senior Associate Athletics Director Hunter Perry-Gallinger highlighted her significance as a leader within the athletic department.
Before her time at Newberry College, Sternkopf served as an assistant coach at Barton College for three seasons, where she aided the Bulldogs in achieving a 27-19 overall record and notable success in the conference tournament. Her academic and athletic background further enhances her capabilities, having played three seasons at Mount Olive from 2016 until 2019. She concluded her playing career due to injury, transitioning into a student assistant coach in her final year.
At Mount Olive, she earned recognition as a four-year Academic All-Conference Carolinas honoree and took on leadership roles, including serving as President and Vice President of the Student-Athlete Advisory Council (SAAC). Her involvement extended to participating in the NCAA Career in Sports Forum and the NCAA Leadership Summit.
Sternkopf holds two degrees from the University of Mount Olive: a B.S. in Leadership Development and an MBA. Her educational background and coaching experiences are expected to greatly benefit the Newberry women’s lacrosse program as it looks to build upon its recent successes.
Background on Newberry College Women’s Lacrosse Team
The women’s lacrosse program at Newberry College has been making strides in the South Atlantic Conference. With a strong commitment to developing both athletic skills and character, the team is poised for future successes. Sternkopf’s appointment reflects the college’s dedication to fostering a competitive and nurturing environment for student-athletes.
Key Achievements Under Kace Sternkopf’s Leadership
| Season | Total Wins | SAC Wins | SAC Tournament Progress |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2022 | 10 | 7 | Semi-finals |
| 2023 | 13 | 9 | Semi-finals |
Future Outlook
As she steps into the role of head coach, Sternkopf will aim to leverage her extensive coaching experience and her strategic vision to continue elevating the Newberry women’s lacrosse program. With a strong foundation in place, her leadership is expected to inspire both current and prospective athletes.
FAQ
Who is the new head coach of the Newberry College women’s lacrosse team?
Kace Sternkopf has been appointed as the head coach of the women’s lacrosse team.
Where is Kace Sternkopf from?
Kace Sternkopf hails from West Islip, N.Y.
How long did Kace Sternkopf serve as an assistant coach at Newberry College?
Sternkopf served as an assistant coach at Newberry College for the past two years.
What was the record of the Newberry College women’s lacrosse team during Sternkopf’s assistant coaching?
Under her guidance as an assistant, Newberry College achieved a combined record of 23-14 overall and 16-5 in the South Atlantic Conference (SAC).
What accomplishments did the team achieve during Sternkopf’s assistant coaching tenure?
The team advanced to the SAC Tournament semifinals in both seasons during her assistant coach tenure.
What is Kace Sternkopf’s educational background?
Sternkopf holds two degrees from the University of Mount Olive: a B.S. in Leadership Development and an MBA.
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Additional Resources
- Newberry Observer: Kace Sternkopf Named Head Coach
- The State: Local Education News
- Montana Sports: Lacrosse Athletes Going to College
- USA Lacrosse: Newberry Surging in Division II
- WENY: Horseheads High School Celebrates Student-Athletes
- Wikipedia: Women’s Lacrosse
- Google Search: Women’s Lacrosse Coaching
- Google Scholar: Women’s Lacrosse Coaching Success
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Lacrosse
- Google News: Women’s Lacrosse
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