FULL IWLCA RELEASE

NORTHBOROUGH, Mass. – An alum of the program and a longtime assistant coach, Nicole Belanger '17, MA '21 continues to draw in the accolades as she was tabbed the Intercollegiate Women's Lacrosse Coaches Association (IWLCA) Division II 2024 Outstanding Assistant Coach as announced by the organization. Belanger and the Division I and III honorees will all be recognized at the IWLCA's Convention on November 21.

The IWLCA Outstanding Assistant Coach award recognizes an assistant coach from each Division who has made a distinct impact on the success of their program through hard work, commitment, dedication, and sportsmanship.

Belanger, who is also the Department of Athletics Wellness Coordinator, has made aa profound impact in her six years with the Chargers. Her multifaceted role includes coaching, wellness advocacy, and mental health support, stemming from her background as a licensed clinical therapist.

"It is an incredible honor to receive the IWLCA 2024 Outstanding Assistant Coach Award for my Division," said Belanger. "I am deeply grateful for this recognition and for the journey that has brought me here—from my days as a student-athlete at the University of New Haven, playing Division II lacrosse, to now serving as a full-time assistant coach and Athletics Wellness Coordinator. This journey has taught me the value of hard work, dedication, and the importance of mentorship, and I am truly proud to give back to the sport that has given me so much."

Belanger has been pivotal in enhancing student-athlete experiences by bridging gaps between athletics and university support services. Her innovative initiatives, such as a comprehensive onboarding guide for incoming athletes, have significantly improved transitions for freshmen, leading to higher retention rates.

Belanger joined the New Haven coaching staff ahead of the 2019 season after a standout four-year career as a midfielder where she amassed 141 points over 75 career games. Throughout her career, Belanger was a four-time all-conference and two-time all-region selection and was a 2017 IWLCA Third Team All-American.

Under her guidance, the team achieved a 12-7 overall record last season and reached the NCAA tournament for the sixth and seventh times in 2023 and 2024.