ORONO — The University of Maine and head women's soccer coach Scott Atherley have agreed to a five-year contract extension through the 2028 season.

"We are excited to have Scott continue to lead our women's soccer program," said Director of Athletics Jude Killy. "He has developed a culture where student-athletes are committed to success in competition, in the classroom and in the community. Scott is passionate about and dedicated to his alma mater, and he remains a great ambassador for our department and the university."

Atherley, a 1988 graduate of Maine, has been at the helm of the Black Bears women's soccer program since the 1999 season. In 2023, Atherley guided the Black Bears to the program's first-ever America East title and NCAA Tournament berth and earned America East Coaching Staff of the Year honors.

"I am grateful for the opportunity to continue to lead the women's soccer program at a place that holds a special place in my heart," said Atherley. "I want to thank President Ferrini-Mundi and Director of Athletics Jude Killy for their unwavering support. I also want to recognize our coaching staff for their dedicated commitment and teamwork in building a great program. It's a privilege to be a part of the athletics family at UMaine and to work alongside such wonderful people." 

Through the 2023 season, Atherley has coached 31 First Team All-Conference selections, 29 Second Team selections and 26 All-Rookies. The Black Bears have had several major America East award winners including Striker of the Year (2), Midfielder of the Year (1), Defender of the Year (6), Goalkeeper of the Year (3), Rookie of the Year (3) and Scholar Athlete of the Year (3). Abby Kraemer became the first-ever All-American in program history last season.

Atherley also leads a team that excels in the classroom, with Kraemer and Myla Schneider becoming the fourth and fifth Black Bears to earn Academic All-American accolades in 2023. Additionally, Maine has had an America East-leading 33 selections to the America East All-Academic Team. The program has also earned 15 Division I Team Academic Awards from the United Soccer Coaches as well as the Team Ethics and Sportsmanship Platinum Award.

Now in his 32nd season as a head coach in Orono, Atherley also served as coach of the UMaine men's soccer team for seven seasons and coached both squads in the fall of 1999. Atherley has won over 225 games as a Maine head coach.

A native of Andover, Conn., Atherley was a standout player for the Black Bears during his career. He was a four-year letterwinner at Maine, serving as team captain in his final season, and was selected to the New England Intercollegiate Soccer League All-Star and Maine Collegiate All-State teams.

Atherley graduated from Maine with a bachelor's degree in physical education and went on to earn a master's degree in exercise physiology.

-UMaine-