Gardner‑Webb University announced this week that Samantha Thomsit will lead its women’s soccer program as the new head coach.
A Strategic Appointment
The university highlighted Thomsit’s proven ability to revitalize programs, citing her recent success at Spring Hill College where she guided the team to 14 victories across the 2024 and 2025 seasons.
During her three‑year tenure at the University of South Alabama, she helped the program capture Sun Belt regular‑season titles and secure a berth in the NCAA Tournament, underscoring her knack for turning under‑performing squads into contenders.
Thomsit’s coaching journey also spans youth development work in both the United States and overseas, including leadership roles at Burlingame Soccer Club in California and JSSL Arsenal Soccer Schools in Singapore.
Credentials and Playing Roots
A graduate of Carson‑Newman University with a B.S. in Physical Education, Thomsit holds an FA Level 1 certification, a USSF B‑license, and an NSCAA Level 2 Goalkeeping Diploma, credentials that blend academic grounding with elite coaching preparation.
She will join the Bulldogs alongside her husband Walker, a move she described as an exciting opportunity to lead the program into its next chapter.
University officials say the hire reflects a commitment to competitive excellence and player development, aiming to elevate the women’s soccer team within the conference and beyond.