A New Era for the Cougars
Caldwell University has named Kate Pellegrino its eighth head coach for women's soccer, entrusting the program to a coach whose career has been built on both playing and teaching the game. Pellegrino, a graduate of IMG Academies and a Division II soccer standout at Regis University, returns to the Northeast after stints that have taken her from Connecticut youth clubs to Division I programs.
Her most recent role was as a volunteer assistant with the Division I squad at Quinnipiac University, where she helped design training sessions, oversee player development, and analyze game film. Prior to that, she served as head coach and assistant girls director at Ole FC in Connecticut, earning a USSF B License and a UEFA C Licence‑Scotland while guiding teams through multiple competitive seasons.
A Player‑Focused Philosophy
Pellegrino’s coaching philosophy centers on three pillars: player well‑being, continuous education, and mentorship. She believes that athletic development thrives when athletes feel supported both on and off the field, and she aims to integrate academic growth with soccer excellence at Caldwell.
Mark Corino, Assistant Vice President and Director of Athletics, praised the appointment, stating that Pellegrino’s blend of competitive experience and educational background aligns perfectly with the university’s vision for a program that competes fiercely while fostering holistic development.
The Cougars finished the previous season with a 13‑3‑4 record and reached the CACC Tournament Finals for the second straight year. Pellegrino inherits a program that has established itself as a contender in the conference, and she is eager to build on that momentum while introducing her own developmental approach.
Looking Ahead
Sammy Adjei, who guided the team to those recent successes, has moved on to become head coach at Saint Peter's University. Pellegrino will now lead the squad into a new chapter, one that she hopes will culminate in deeper playoff runs and continued growth for the student‑athletes under her guidance.