New coaches for women’s soccer

Steve Springthorpe

By Brian Risso
Athletic Media Relations

Steve Springthorpe begins his first season as head coach of the Fresno State women's soccer program. Springthorpe, who served as an assistant coach at the University of Florida for the previous five seasons, was named head coach June 3, 2004.

"I feel confident that in a short period of time the soccer program will be competing at a higher level and challenging to win a conference championship," said Springthorpe. "I look forward to what I know will be years of success on the field and in the classroom for the players on the team."

Thomas Chestnutt


Lindsey Sosovec

Joining Springthorpe's staff are assistant coaches are Thomas Chestnutt and Lindsey Sosovec

In five years at Florida, Springthorpe helped the Gators win three Southeastern Conference (SEC) regular season championships, three SEC Tournament Championships and reached the NCAA Tournament on four occasions. Last season, the Gators were 19-4-2 and advanced to the NCAA quarterfinal round. They were ranked as high as No. 2 in the country during the season and finished ranked No. 8 nationally.

While at Florida, he worked with the goalkeepers and was involved in recruiting and scouting. He served under Becky Burleigh, who ranks No. 3 on the NCAA's active winning percentage record list.

"We are very excited to have Steve join our staff," said Athletics Director Scott Johnson. "He comes from one of the premier programs in the nation and knows what it takes to not only compete but to win at a high level. He's also had a tremendous background of working with young ladies and has shown a great success for high academic achievements."