Bluefield, WV – Bluefield State University Athletics announces the appointment of Gene Smith as the new Head Coach for the Women's Soccer program.

"We are excited to welcome Coach Smith to the Hill," said Derrick Price, Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics. "Coach Smith brings a wealth of experience in recruiting and implementing both short and long-term strategic plans for his teams."

Gene Smith joins Bluefield State from Inter CT FC in Norwalk, Connecticut, where he served as the DPL Director. During his tenure, he significantly expanded the club's female division through effective recruitment, education initiatives, structural reforms, and successful league applications. Additionally, he promoted the club within the community and represented it at various coaching seminars. Smith has also held the role of Director of Club Development and Marketing at Glacier Surf Soccer Club.

Prior to his role at Inter CT FC, Smith was the Assistant Women's Soccer Coach and Men's Goalkeeper Coach at Clayton State University. His responsibilities included assisting with all practices, developing game schedules, coordinating travel logistics, and managing recruitment efforts. He also played a pivotal role in academic monitoring for the women's program and fostering student-athlete engagement.

"I am incredibly honored to be the next Head Women's Soccer Coach at Bluefield State University," said Smith. "I am eager to bring my experience and passion for the game to Bluefield State. I look forward to building a dynamic and successful program that embodies both excellence and culture. I am profoundly grateful for the support and trust of the administration, and I am excited to lead our team to new heights!"

Smith's coaching career began at Plymouth State University, with subsequent positions at California University of Pennsylvania, Davis & Elkins College, Marist College, and Colby-Sawyer College. At Davis & Elkins, he earned recognition as the GMAC Coach of the Year in 2015 and led the team to GMAC Regular Season Championships in 2015 and 2016, among other achievements. His teams also received the NSCAA Team Academic Award from 2014 to 2017.

Smith holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Norwich University, a Master of Science in Organizational Leadership from Northeastern University, and a Master of Business Administration in Marketing from California University of Pennsylvania.