A Strategic Coaching Upgrade
Johns Hopkins University announced the addition of Carly Wetzel and Kobe Crone to the women's soccer coaching staff, a move that follows a historic season in which the team captured its fourth straight Centennial Conference title and advanced deep into the NCAA Tournament. Head coach Dan Weiler highlighted the duo's blend of playing pedigree and coaching acumen as a key factor in the program's continued ascent.
Weiler, who has overseen the program's recent dominance, emphasized that the new assistants will help sustain the team's competitive edge while reinforcing a culture rooted in the Baltimore community. Their appointments reflect a deliberate effort to blend local insight with a global perspective on the sport.
Wetzel's Journey from Maryland to the World
Carly Wetzel arrives after a distinguished collegiate career that included stints at North Carolina and the University of St. Andrews, where she earned a master's degree and was repeatedly recognized on the ACC Academic Honor Roll. A three‑time state champion at River Hill High School, Wetzel later turned professional, playing in Ireland, Iceland and Germany before returning to Maryland to pursue coaching.
Her coaching résumé features an assistant role at UMBC and youth development work with Soccer by Rachel, experiences that have honed her ability to mentor both elite prospects and emerging talent. Wetzel's educational background, which includes graduate work at St. Andrews, underscores a commitment to intellectual growth alongside athletic development.
Crone's Path from Goalkeeper to Coach
Kobe Crone brings a distinguished playing history as a standout goalkeeper at Dulaney High School, followed by collegiate stints at Lycoming College and CCBC‑Essex, where he earned an associate's degree and a bachelor's in Criminal Justice from the University of Baltimore. Crone's professional coaching trajectory includes assistant positions at Essex and roles with the United Goalkeeper Alliance and International Goalkeeper Coaches Conference, as well as stints with local clubs such as Racing Power FC and Touch Kings FC.
Known for his work with All‑America goalkeepers, Crone's expertise in player development and tactical preparation is expected to complement the program's defensive strategies. His involvement in multiple goalkeeper‑focused academies further demonstrates a dedication to elevating the team's overall performance.
Both Wetzel and Crone share deep ties to the Baltimore area, a factor that Weiler believes will strengthen community engagement and inspire local youth. Their combined playing and coaching backgrounds position the program to maintain its upward trajectory as it prepares for the 2026 season opener against Catholic on September 1 at Homewood Field.