A strategic addition to American University's women's soccer staff
American University announced the hiring of Nicolas Lancaster as its new goalkeeping coach for the upcoming 2026 season, a move that underscores the program's commitment to elevating defensive expertise.
Lancaster arrives after a tenure as Director of Goalkeeping at Montgomery Soccer Inc., where he oversaw the development of elite female talent, including the 2008 Girls Gold (U19) squad, and crafted individualized training plans that emphasized technical refinement and tactical awareness.
His coaching résumé also features a stint with Maryland United FC, a club renowned for producing competitive goalkeepers, where he honed techniques in shot‑stopping, distribution and set‑piece organization.
Lancaster’s collegiate journey began at Seton Hill University, where he served as a starting goalkeeper from 2018 to 2022, later transitioning to an assistant coaching role at both Indiana University of Pennsylvania and Seton Hill, blending on‑field insight with strategic planning.
A holder of a United Soccer Coaches Advanced National Goalkeeping Diploma and a USSF National D License, Lancaster earned a bachelor’s degree in communications with a sports management minor from Seton Hill in 2022, followed by a master’s in sports management from Indiana University of Pennsylvania in 2023, credentials that blend academic rigor with practical know‑how.
University officials say the appointment will bring a fresh perspective to the program’s defensive architecture, positioning the Eagles to compete more aggressively in the highly contested collegiate soccer landscape.