Josh Gildea new men's soccer assistant coach

Josh Gildea chosen as new Assistant Men's Soccer Coach

7/29/2024 10:44:00 AM

LEXINGTON, Va. – Washington and Lee University's Michael F. Walsh Director of Athletics, Jan Hathorn, announced the addition of Josh Gildea to the men's soccer coaching staff. Gildea will assist head coach Lumumba Shabazz starting on July 29.

"Josh is a talented young coach who will bring a great deal of knowledge, passion and enthusiasm to developing our players in a holistic manner," remarked Shabazz. "We are excited to have him in our program and can't wait to get started."

Gildea joins following a successful coaching and playing career at Lycoming College in Williamsport, Pa. As the assistant men's soccer coach for two seasons, the Warriors achieved a 22-8-13 record (.663), including a 13-2-2 (.824) conference record. Serving as the primary goalkeeper coach, the Warriors reached the conference championship game both seasons (2022 MAC Commonwealth, 2023 Landmark), with goalkeepers posting a 0.966 goals-against average and 19 shutouts.

"I'd like to first thank Coach Shabazz, Jan Hathorn, and the rest of the search committee for welcoming me to campus and the Washington and Lee community," said Gildea. "I'm excited for this opportunity to contribute to the next chapter of the storied history of this program and institution."

After graduating from Lycoming in 2017 with degrees in psychology and business administration, Gildea spent five years with the Colorado Rapids (MLS) Soccer Club in Denver. He coached the U13-U19 ECNL boys, U9-U12 boys and girls Competitive Program, and U12-U19 Elite Development Squad, working with players who progressed to all levels of the NCAA.

Gildea returned to Lycoming in 2022 as a decorated assistant, being a finalist for the 2021 CSA State Coach of the Year, the 2021 CSA Advanced League Boys Coach of the Year and the 2020 Central Select Program Coach of the Year.

As a student-athlete at Lycoming, Gildea was part of two MAC Commonwealth championships (2013, 2015) and two NCAA Tournament appearances, including a Round of 16 appearance as the starting keeper in 2015. The 2016 Team MVP, Gildea posted a 24-6-4 record and a 0.80 GAA in his career, and he appeared on the MAC Academic Honor Roll twice.

Gildea also holds a USSF D License and completed the Rapids Youth Soccer Club Futsal Training Course.
 
Nestled in the mountains of Virginia, Washington and Lee University is a proud member of NCAA Division III and the Old Dominion Athletic Conference. Founded in 1749, W&L is the ninth-oldest college in the United States and a top-ranked liberal arts university. With over 500 student-athletes in 24 varsity sports, the Generals have celebrated over 265 conference championships. Learn more about the Blue and White by visiting www.generalssports.com or on social media at @WLUGenerals.
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