Znaniecki Named Women’s Lacrosse Head Coach

Written by Andrew Capitelli (SJC-LI Sports Information)

Patchogue, NY| St. Joseph's College (L.I.) Assistant Vice President & Senior Director of Athletics & Recreation Shantey M. Hill announced on Wednesday morning the elevation of Kristen Znaniecki to head coach of the institution's women's lacrosse program.

Znaniecki spent the past three seasons as assistant coach of the program under Bob Vlahakis and was a part of two Skyline Conference championship teams in 2015 and 2016. Tasked mostly with running the team's offense, the program made three Skyline Conference finals appearances, two NCAA Tournament second round appearances, and posted a 35-17 overall record and a 22-1 conference mark during Znaniecki's time on the coaching staff.

"I would like to thank Shantey Hill and the rest of the SJC athletic department for giving me the opportunity to take over as head coach of this very successful program," said Znaniecki of her appointment. "I am very excited for the opportunity to continue to help the program grow and am looking forward to maintaining the integrity and excellence that it strives for."

Prior to joining the St. Joseph's staff, Znaniecki starred for the Mercy College women's lacrosse team from 2011 to 2014. In 57 career games, the attack tallied 84 goals, 46 assists and 130 points. Znaniecki also served as team captain for the 2013 and 2014 seasons and appeared on the East Coast Conference Weekly Honor Roll on four occasions.

During her time at Mercy, the Port Jefferson, NY native was also a member of the field hockey team and, as a goaltender, finished first in the nation in total saves for the 2011 and 2012 seasons.

In addition to her collegiate coaching and playing experience, Znaniecki has held other various coaching and instructional positions with the 365 Lacrosse Team (Oct. 16-present), Diva's Elite Girs Lacrosse Team (July 2016-present) and the Irvington High School girls lacrosse team (2013-2014).

A 2014 graduate of Mercy College with a Bachelor's degree in health sciences and psychology, Znaniecki is working towards a Master's degree in athletic administration at Canisus College.