By: @jonnystrube0
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. – Director of Athletics, Aaron Sagraves is excited to announce the hiring of Sam Tracey as the third women's soccer head coach in program history. Earlier this spring, Coach
Randy Strawser announced his retirement after 24 years as the head coach, the move will now bring in Tracey to lead the program.
"I am very excited to have Sam join our athletic team here at Cornerstone! From day one of the process, I could see that her mission fit in exactly with what we want to strive for here on campus! She desires to create a program that strives for excellence in spiritual growth, academic achievement, and athletic success. She experienced all of those as a student athlete at Spring Arbor and now wants to create that for the next generation."
Tracey comes to Cornerstone with a significant soccer background, spending her life around the sport wanting to teach and grow other athletes. In coaching, she has spent the last two years as an assistant at Grand Valley State where she helped them to a GLIAC Championship, Regional Championship, and helping the GLIAC Goalkeeper of the Year. On the side, she coaches for Midwest United, mentoring female soccer athletes.
Prior to coaching, Tracey played for Spring Arbor University where she was a National Champion and three-time Crossroads League Champion along with numerous honors including NAIA All-American, CoSIDA Academic All-American of the Year, CoSIDA Academic All-American First and Second Team and First Team All-Conference as the goalkeeper.
Tracey would graduate from Spring Arbor University after four years where she earned her Bachelor's in Arts, Mathematics Secondary Education.
When asked about the position, Tracey Stated, "I could not be more excited for this opportunity to lead the Cornerstone University women's soccer program. I have a passion for leading and empowering women to be their absolute best in their academic, athletic, and faith journeys, and I feel so blessed to be afforded this opportunity at Cornerstone University. I'm thrilled for the opportunity to stay in Grand Rapids and be back in the NAIA at an institution that prioritizes both the pursuit of excellence and equipping athletes for their kingdom work beyond their time as a student-athlete. I cannot wait to begin growing our community partnerships and alumni network to surround these athletes and build the kingdom of God!"
Tracey will begin officially on May 30, 2024, where she will take over for
Randy Strawser. For more information about the CU Women's Soccer program visit cugoldeneagles.com.
Women's Soccer Contact: Jonny Strube
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