Vitale Takes Over Field Hockey Program

SUNY New Paltz Director of Athletics, Stuart Robinson, has announced the hiring of Shanna Vitale as the new women’s field hockey coach.

“To add someone of Shanna’s experience is exciting for us,” stated Robinson. “Her enthusiasm for the sport of field hockey and her abilities to teach while understanding and appreciating the challenges that face student athletes will definitely benefit our students. I look forward to working with Shanna as she works to build a successful program.”

Prior to New Paltz, Vitale served as the assistant coach for Lock Haven University’s program for six years. She was responsible for assisting in all phases of the program, including game plans, scouting, academic monitoring and recruiting. During her time at Lock Haven, Vitale helped guide the program to a 106-25 record, including three North East Conference Championships.

Vitale is a 2002 graduate of Lock Haven University, where she earned her Bachelor’s degree in Health and Physical Education with a concentration in Sports Administration and Coaching. Vital was a forward on the Lady Eagles field hockey program from 1998-2000; she spent the 1997 year on the field for Mansfield University. In 2000, she achieved recognition as the NCAA Division II Field Hockey Athlete of the Year and Honda Broderick nominee. She is a three-time All-American (2000, 1998, 1997), a three-time Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) first team selection (2000, 1998, 1997) and the PSAC Athlete of the Year in 2000.

Over the span of her career at Lock Haven, Vitale recorded a total of 39 goals, including 17 during her senior season, to rank ninth on the Lady Eagles’ all-time goals list. She was a member of the 2000 national championship squad and two PSAC championship teams (1998, 2000).

Prior to her return to Lock Haven, Vitale served as an assistant coach at Wooster College, working with the field hockey and lacrosse teams.