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Gators hire Samantha Bohon as new women's soccer coach

Untitled designby: Nick de la Torre05/16/22delatorre
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Photo courtesy of UF Communications.

Less than one month after firing head coach Tony Amato the Florida Gators have a new head coach. Monday Samantha Bohon was announced as the new women’s soccer coach. She is just the third head coach in program history.

Bohon comes to Florida after 15 seasons with the Embry-Riddle women’s soccer program.

“I want to humbly thank Scott Stricklin, the search committee, and the rest of the athletic department for this incredible opportunity to lead Florida’s storied soccer program,” Bohon said in a statement. “It was clear early on of our shared values and goals for the program that will ultimately lead to an unforgettable student-athlete experience. The university and athletic department prioritize developing the student, person, and player. That will ultimately set our student-athletes up for future success.”

“The University of Florida offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity for student-athletes to receive a top-five academic education. Utilize state of the art facilities, and compete in one of the best conferences in the nation all while having unmatched support. I am chomping at the bit to get started! Go Gators!”

Bohon needs to help shape and fit the culture

When Tony Amato was fired last month Stricklin cited “a disconnect with his players”. The Gators posted a record of 4-12-4 in the fall of 2021, its worst in program history.

Bohon comes to Florida after 15 years at Embry-Riddle.

She led the Eagles to multiple conference titles. She oversaw the program’s transition from NAIA to NCAA Division II competition. The Eagles advanced to the national tournament action in both. Under her watch, the Eagles went 167-76-16 (.676), while compiling a 78-25-7 (.741) conference record.

“I am eternally grateful for the last 15 years spent at Embry-Riddle,” Bohon said. “And I believe wholeheartedly that my time as an Eagle prepared me for this next exciting adventure.”

“Samantha Bohon’s unique history has blended playing and coaching experience at all levels of women’s soccer. From her playing career at Duke and with the US National Team,” Stricklin said. “To her work on the administrative side with the NCAA, to coaching in the SEC, NAIA, and NCAA Division II. The one constant has been success.”

Bohon is just the third coach in program history. Amato replaced Becky Burleigh, who stepped down following the COVID-marred 2020 campaign. Burleigh guided the soccer program for 26 years and led the Gators to their first National Championship in 1988. She led the Gators to 22 NCAA Tournament appearances. UF won 13 regular-season SEC titles and 12 SEC Tournament titles.

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