SAMANTHA MILLER NAMED NEW PALTZ INTERIM HEAD SOFTBALL COACH
Samantha Miller, who most recently served as an assistant coach at New York University in 2016, has been named the interim head softball coach at the State University of New York at New Paltz, as announced Friday by Director of Athletics, Wellness & Recreation Stuart Robinson.
New Paltz Sports Information Department
NEW PALTZ, N.Y. – Samantha Miller, who most recently served as an assistant coach at New York University in 2016, has been named the interim head softball coach at the State University of New York at New Paltz, as announced Friday by Director of Athletics, Wellness & Recreation Stuart Robinson.
"Although Brittany's departure came suddenly, I feel very fortunate to have been able to locate someone of Sam's background and experience," Robinson said. "Her passion and desire for excellence made her an easy choice to tap for our coach this year. I believe that Sam will allow for our program to continue its upward trajectory."
During her one season at NYU, she helped the Violets capture the Eastern College Athletic Conference (ECAC) Division III Metro Championship in the program's second year of varsity competition. NYU went 26-15 overall (4-6 UAA) in 2016 and secured its first University Athletic Association (UAA) Championship victories in program history as well. The Violets also closed the season on a nine-game winning streak.
Prior to NYU, Miller served as the head varsity softball coach at Franklin D. Roosevelt High School from 2013-16. While at FDR, she led the Presidents to their first league title in six years and guided the program to the Section 9 Class AA final within two years of her tenure with the varsity team. Miller coached FDR's junior varsity team from 2010-12. Her first coaching job came in 2008, as she served as a modified coach at Red Hook High School for three seasons.
Since 2008, Miller has owned and instructed at the Golden State Softball Academy, providing instruction and clinics throughout the year.
Miller competed at NCAA Division II University of Bridgeport from 2004-07, serving as a team captain on the Knights' two ECAC championship teams from 2005-06. In 2006, she earned National Fastpitch Coaches Association (NFCA) All-Region honors while being named the MVP of the ECAC Tournament. Prior to the 2007 campaign, Miller was chosen as the Louisville Slugger Pre-Season Player of the Year by the ECAC. She earned her Bachelor of Science degree from Bridgeport in 2007.
After graduation, Miller had the opportunity to play professionally, competing for the Connecticut Brakettes of National Pro Fastpitch (NPF) for one season in 2007.
"I'm really excited to take on the program and try to elevate the high standard that Brittany has already established," Miller said. "I couldn't be any more excited than to build upon the success that is already there and build on each individual's skill set. Any new coach with a little bit of tweaking and new ideas can help student-athletes realize untapped potential. I look forward to seeing what each student-athlete is capable of while building upon the tradition of New Paltz softball."
Miller takes over the New Paltz softball program after former head coach Brittany Robinson accepted an assistant coaching position at NCAA Division I University of North Carolina Wilmington.
