Herman Named Assistant Women’s Lacrosse Coach

CINCINNATI - Xavier head women's lacrosse coach Meg Decker announced the hiring of Sam Herman as assistant coach on Thursday afternoon. Herman served as the program's volunteer assistant coach in 2021.

"Starting a new program takes an immense amount of energy, love of the game, and the ability to grow – as a coach, as a program and as players," said Decker. "Throughout her time at Hartford and through this year as a volunteer, Sam has left no doubt in my mind that she has all of these qualities in spades.

"Above her obvious qualities, Sam is a keen observer and one of the most competitive people I have worked with. Her ability to see and create patterns will be an asset to our offensive unit and her competitive spirit will set the tone for our players as the learn the type of edge it takes to be the best. There is no question that her legacy as a coach will even surpass the accomplishments of her illustrious playing career. I am proud to be have been and continue to be a part of her coaching journey. Welcome to the BIG EAST, Sam!"

Herman was previously an assistant coach for two seasons at Hartford, helping the team land almost 90 percent of its roster on the America East Honor Roll. Nearly 75 percent of the roster earned Commissioner's Honor Roll distinction for achieving a grade point average of 3.5 or higher. During that same period, the offensive possession time doubled, from 11 minutes to 22 minutes, and the team increased its offensive possessions by 50 percent and doubled their goals per game.

Herman also has club coaching experience, serving as an assistant coach for Elite Lacrosse Club from 2014-19. She also coached at Top of Bay Lacrosse (2018), Tyla Honeybees Lacrosse (2019) and Panther Lacrosse Club (2018-19).

Herman played lacrosse at High Point from 2015-19, earning All-Big South First Team honors three times. She finished her career as the program's career draw record holder. Herman ended her career as MVP of the Big South Tournament in 2019.

She graduated in the spring of 2019 with a bachelor's degree in exercise science.

WHAT OTHERS ARE SAYING

Lyndsey Boswell, High Point University Women's Lacrosse Head Coach
"Sam had a very successful career at High Point University, and I'm so proud of the maturity, growth, and developments Sam has had in the past few years as an assistant. Sam's lacrosse IQ mixed with her work ethic and unmatched energy around the sport is what makes her unique. I'm so happy for Sam and her new position, I know she's ready for a new challenge and headed toward lots of success in her future."

Morgan Valley, UConn Women's Basketball Assistant Coach
"Sam is one of the best up and coming coaches in women's lacrosse. Sam works hard to build relationships and is great at what she does. Sam's discipline and work ethic as a player have translated into her coaching career, allowing her to get after her everyday responsibilities plus the things that just happen throughout the course of a work day in a remarkable manner for such a young coach. It is really exciting to see what the future of Xavier Lacrosse will be with both Coach Decker and Sam leading the way."

Abby Hormes, High Point University Women's Lacrosse Player
"Sam Herman was the ideal teammate. She was the one who did all the dirty work that made things happen. She was selfless in that she didn't mind being the decoy cutter or setting picks because all she wanted was for the team to score goals. Sam also has such a high lacrosse IQ and knows the game so well. She was the leader that everyone looked to if they needed help. I can only imagine what an amazing assistant coach she will be and the perfect person to help build a program and grow the game."

Leah Pace, Duquesne Assistant Women's Lacrosse Coach
"Sam Herman was not only a great teammate and lacrosse player at HPU but her Lacrosse IQ sets the bar high. Her knowledge for the sport has only grown as a coach and I am excited to watch her career grow. Her love and passion for the game make people around her want to work harder."

Krystin Porcella, Owner and President of Major Force Lacrosse
"Sam Herman has always been a leader so becoming a college coach is a natural fit for her. She was a player you could always rely on to execute in the field, encourage her teammates and had influence over the team culture. As a coach, she connects well with her student athletes and is someone who is consistent and steady for the players to rely on and look up to."

Caitlin Prince, University of Oregon Assistant Coach
"Sam Herman is an asset with stellar work ethic. She provides a wealth of energy, organization and patience to her work. As a true competitor, she brings immense value in building Xavier in the BIG EAST. I'm eager to watch her continue growing the sport in the Midwest!"

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