BROOKLYN, N.Y. --- Eleri Earnshaw, a former LIU Brooklyn women's soccer player and assistant coach, has returned to the school as the fourth head coach in the history of the Blackbirds program.
"We are happy to welcome Eleri back to LIU Brooklyn. She is a great fit for our student-athletes and campus community," Deputy Director of Athletics Margaret Alaimo said. "We are confident that she will bring stability and enthusiasm back to our women's soccer program, and have us competing for the Northeast Conference championships every year."
Earnshaw returns to LIU after a three-season stint at Yale University (2014-16), serving as a volunteer assistant for two seasons before spending her final campaign as a full assistant. Earnshaw's responsibilities with the Bulldogs were primarily focused on training, development and program management. Prior to Yale, Earnshaw worked three seasons as a volunteer at Central Connecticut State (2011-14) and two years as a graduate assistant at LIU (2008-10).
"I would like to thank Director of Athletics Brad Cohen and Deputy Director of Athletics Margaret Alaimo for bringing me back to Brooklyn," Earnshaw said. "It is such a privilege to return to LIU and lead a program with such a rich tradition of success. I am humbled by the opportunity and I am excited about the potential of this program."
Earnshaw's collegiate playing career began at Iona, where she was a three-time All-MAAC selection before she joined the Blackbirds and earned All-NEC honors in her senior campaign in 2007.
A native of Rhyl, Wales, Earnshaw also has extensive experience playing at the club and international levels. She has played with the New York Magic of the W-League and for her native Welsh National Team. From 2001-04, Earnshaw played with the highly successful Arsenal Ladies Football Club in England where she helped the squad win both the FA Women's Premier League and FA Women's cup in 2003-04.
Earnshaw has also represented Wales from the Under-14 up to Under-19 levels and now looks to provide opportunities for other young players through her work with SoccerPlus CT, girlsCAN Football and the Connecticut Football Club. In addition, she also promotes healthy living as a certified personal trainer and strength & conditioning coach.
Joining Earnshaw's staff is assistant coach Kristin Cannon. Cannon comes to LIU after coaching stints at Cincinnati, Johnson State College, Springfield College and her alma mater, Assumption College.