Franco Bari '98 Appointed Head Women's Soccer Coach

by: 

Tara Freeman

Franco Bari '98 was named the head coach of the St. Lawrence women's soccer team.

Apr. 1, 2008: St. Lawrence University Athletic Director Margie Strait announced on Tuesday morning that Franco Bari, a 1998 graduate of St. Lawrence University and a National All-American for the men's soccer team, has been named the new women's soccer head coach, beginning in the fall of 2008.

"St. Lawrence is proud to welcome back a prestigious alumnus to lead the women's soccer team. Franco's distinguished career as a player is defined by his All-American status. His career that followed has defined him as a successful coach," said Strait.

Bari comes from Greensboro College , where he was head coach of the Pride since December 2006 and accumulated a 22-13-3 overall record.

Before coaching at Greensboro, Bari was at the helm of the women's soccer program at Elmira College, where he coached from 2001 through 2005 and was named Empire 8 Athletic Conference Coach of the Year in 2002. He also served as the assistant women's soccer coach at Arizona State University from 1999 to 2001. Bari was also the Director of Coaching at Guilford United Soccer Club and has professional playing experience.

His long list of administrative experience includes service as the CHAMPS/Life Skills and Compliance Coordinator at Greensboro College, as well as College Administrator and Director of Community Outreach and Athlete Support Services at Elmira College.

"We are excited to add Franco's leadership to our women's soccer team and our department, as he brings experience in the sport and new ideas for the athletic program," Strait added. In addition to his All-America status, Bari was a four-time First Team All-Conference selection at St. Lawrence and was named UCAA Player of the Year in 1997.

"I am extremely honored for the opportunity to give back to the institution that gave so much to me. St. Lawrence University has a rich academic as well as athletic tradition which I am looking forward to once again being a part of," said Bari.

He added, "There is no doubt in my mind that the women's soccer program has the potential and resources to not only attract and develop quality student-athletes, but also the support to compete for a Liberty League Championship and beyond."

Bari joins the Saints' staff following the resignation of Deb Biche, who coached the Scarlet and Brown the past ten seasons.