MARQUETTE, Mich. - The Northern Michigan University women's soccer team has announced the elevation of Laura Wayland, promoting her to Associate Head Coach.

"We couldn't be happier for Laura. She is very deserving of this promotion to Associate Head Coach," says Jon Sandoval. "Since her arrival, she has played an integral part in the program's success. [Wayland's] personality and joyfulness are infectious and necessary for our team culture. It's been an honor to watch her grow as a coach."

Wayland has been on staff since the 2021 season, the year after Sandoval was hired as head coach. Joining his staff as a volunteer assistant coach, Wayland made an impact right away, as she helped lead the team to an 11-8-3 record, the most wins in a season since 2008.

Wayland was named assistant coach in 2022 and has spent the last two seasons in that position, helping guide the 'Cats to a 29-6-9 record, the programs' first-ever GLIAC Championship, back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances, and a program-high no. 8 national ranking in the previous two seasons.

"Laura works directly with our defense, leading them to new program heights each year," and the stats show just how much of an impact Wayland has had. This past season, the 'Cats conceded 12 goals against, the program's fewest allowed in a season. The previous record? 13 goals against, set last year with the help of Wayland's direction. 

In conjunction with allowing fewer goals, the 'Cats shutouts saw an increase. After posting 10 shutouts in 2022, the 'Cats recorded 14 shutouts in 2023, breaking the previous record of 12 set in 2006. "[Wayland] continues to raise the bar with her hard work and dedication." 

The Wildcat family congratulates Laura on her promotion and is excited to see what the future holds.