LA VERNE, CA — The University of La Verne Athletics Department has announced that head women's soccer coach,
Lauryn Pehanich, has resigned from her position. Pehanich led the program for more than a decade.
Pehanich joined the Leopards prior to the 2013 season and quickly helped elevate the program. In her first year at the helm, the Leopards finished 9-10-1 overall and 6-7-1 in SCIAC play, marking a five-win improvement in both categories from the previous season and narrowly missing the SCIAC Championship Tournament by one game.
During her tenure, Pehanich guided the Leopards to continued success on the field and individual recognition across the SCIAC. The 2017 squad posted the program's best record in four seasons at 9-6-3 overall and 5-6-3 in SCIAC competition, highlighted by standout performances from All-West Region and First Team All-SCIAC selections Jessica Hernandez and Alina Cobian.
Under Pehanich's leadership, 18 student-athletes earned All-SCIAC honors, while six Leopards garnered All-West Region recognition. Additionally, her squads set the standard for academic excellence at La Verne, regularly posting one of the highest team GPAs in the athletic department and boasting numerous CSC Academic All-District selections.
"After 14 unforgettable years leading this program, the hardest goodbye is also the easiest decision. Time is precious, and my greatest team will always be my three children. Being a coach has been one of the highest honors of my life, and I am forever grateful for every player, colleague, and moment that shaped this journey. This program holds a special place in my heart, but seasons change, and I've chosen to spend this next chapter where it matters most. Thank you for allowing me to live out my dream at La Verne." said Pehanich.
"Lauryn has been a tremendous leader for our women's soccer program and a valued member of the Leopard Athletics family for more than a decade," said University of La Verne Director of Athletics, Dr. Jenna Panatier. "Her commitment to the growth and success of our student-athletes both on the field and in the classroom has left a lasting impact on our department. We are grateful for everything Lauryn has done for the University and wish her every success in her next chapter."
The University of La Verne thanks Coach Pehanich for her dedication to the women's soccer program and her commitment to developing Leopard student-athletes both on and off the field. A national search for the program's next head coach is currently being conducted.
