Holland Reporter

Grand Valley State University's women's soccer team has announced a new addition to its coaching staff. Head coach Katelyn Longino revealed that Jade Smith will be joining as the assistant coach.

"I am excited to welcome Jade Smith as our new assistant women's soccer coach," Longino stated. "With her exceptional expertise in tactics, recruitment, and player development, Jade brings a meticulous and intentional approach to every aspect of the game. Her strategic mindset, dedication to excellence, and ability to build meaningful relationships with players will elevate our program. I am confident that her attention to detail and commitment to growth will make a lasting impact on both our team and the future of Grand Valley State soccer."

Smith previously worked at St. Cloud State as an assistant coach and recruiting coordinator for six seasons. Her tenure there saw the program achieve its first two NCAA national tournament appearances in 2023 and 2024, alongside securing their first regular season conference championship in 2023.

"First and foremost, I'd like to thank St. Cloud State and coach Gretta Macdonald," said Smith. "The past six years of professional and personal growth has helped prepare me for this opportunity. Thank you to Athletic Director Keri Becker and coach Katelyn Longino for welcoming me into Laker Nation. I couldn't be more excited to be a part of Coach Longino's era. Her championship vision and standards will elevate the program and continue to build upon the championship tradition at GVSU."

Smith holds a USSF "A" coaching license and has experience as Technical Director for Magic Soccer Football Club in Bismarck, North Dakota from 2016-2019. She also contributed to the Olympic Development Program (ODP) for North Dakota and South Dakota, serving on the Region 2 ODP staff.

A University of Mary graduate in 2018, Smith was recognized as an outstanding player during her collegiate career from 2015-2018 with notable achievements including being named All-NSIC team in 2017. As captain during her junior and senior years, she majored in coaching and sports studies with a minor in sports management.