John Scott became head coach of the Hartwick men's soccer program this past March.
Scott, a native of Banff, Scotland, and former player at Hartwick, returns to Oyaron Hill after serving the past nine seasons as the top assistant at Binghamton University. He becomes just the 7th head coach in the 54-year history of the men's soccer program, a list that includes Hal Greig (1956-59), David Haase (1960-66), Al Miller (1967-72), Timo Liekoski (1973-75), Jim Lennox (1976-2002), and Ian McIntyre (2003-09).
"We are pleased to welcome John as our next head coach for men's soccer," said athletic director Debbie Warren. "John is an excellent tactician, a proven recruiter, and a person of strong character and commitment. Hartwick is indeed lucky to welcome John to this role. We are excited about our future and 'Wick soccer."
At Binghamton, Scott assisted in the management and development of all phases of the Bearcats' program including recruiting, training, match preparation, team academics, and alumni and community relations. During his stay at BU, he has been a key factor in the team's Division I success. After their first two years competing at the Division I level in 2001 and 2002, the Bearcats have since gone 69-37-29 in the past seven years with two appearances in the NCAA Tournament, two America East Conference titles, and six trips to the America East Tournament finals.
As a Hartwick player, Scott donned the blue and white in 1996 starting all 18 games. He finished the campaign ranked 2nd in assists and tied for 4th in scoring with a goal and five helpers. After his freshman season, Scott returned to his native Scotland to compete on the semi-professional level for Fraserburgh FC and Buckie Thistle FC from 1997-2000. He earned a bachelor's degree in 2000 from the University of Abertay in Dundee, Scotland, in the field of sports coaching.
"Hartwick men's soccer is known for its glittering tradition and for having a rich history and I feel very privileged to be named the next head coach," stated Scott. "Looking back, there are many coaches who have succeeded in leaving their stamp at Hartwick. I fully intend to work tirelessly and passionately so more success can be delivered to our extensive soccer family. I can't thank Athletic Director Debbie Warren enough for providing me with this opportunity and I can't wait to get started."
Scott began his coaching career at Plattsburgh State in 2000, serving as the assistant women's coach before accepting the assistant position at Binghamton in the fall of 2001. He holds coaching certifications from the Scottish Football Association as well as National Soccer Coaches Association of America National, Advanced National, and Premier Diplomas. Scott also assists in the direction of B.C. United Fusion, a Premier Youth Soccer Club based in Endicott, NY.
Scott has been married to his wife, Erica, whom he met at Hartwick, for the past 12 years. They have two children, Callum (10) and Lauren (4). Scott takes over a Hartwick men's soccer team that finished the 2009 season 10-4-4 overall, 2nd in the Mid-American Conference regular season standings, and runner-up in the MAC Tournament.
