A New Chapter for the Catamounts
University of Vermont head coach Kate Pfeifer announced that Marlee McClendon will step into the role of associate head coach for the 2026 season, a move that underscores the midfielder’s growing influence within the program.
McClendon, now in her fourth year with the Catamounts, has been a cornerstone of the team’s defensive stability, overseeing the penalty corner unit and serving as the primary scout for opponents.
Her impact extends beyond the back line; she has also acted as the program’s recruiting coordinator, bringing in talent that helped Vermont capture its first America East regular-season championship and reach the championship game for the second consecutive year.
The Catamounts finished the season with a 1.58 goals-against average, posted six shutouts and allowed just one goal during the America East Playoffs, a testament to McClendon’s defensive acumen.
Strategic Growth on the Field
With the promotion, McClendon will now share responsibility for attacking strategies, expanding her role from defensive coordination to shaping the team’s offensive schemes.
She will also serve on several departmental committees, contributing to broader athletic and academic initiatives within the university.
The coaching staff’s efforts were recognized when Pfeifer, McClendon and assistant coach Haley Buffenbarger were named America East Coaching Staff of the Year, a tribute to their collective success.
Individual honors followed, with Abby Wilber ranking fourth in the conference for defensive saves and Sophia Lefranc adding a crucial stop, while Maddy Weaver earned All-Conference Second Team accolades and Fiona McMahon was selected to the All-Rookie Team.
Looking ahead, the Catamounts enter the next season with a clear vision: to build on their defensive foundation while leveraging McClendon’s new offensive perspective, aiming to contend again for the America East title.