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MANSFIELD, Pa. – Mansfield University Interim Director of Athletics Kris Decker has named John Shaffer interim head women’s soccer coach.

Shaffer comes to Mansfield University after serving as head coach of the boys’ soccer program at Wellsboro High School since 2010. Under his watch, Shaffer greatly enhanced the soccer program at Wellsboro and guided the Hornets to a District IV Championship and appearance in the Elite 8 of the PIAA State Tournament in 2017. He was named the NTL Coach of the Year following the 2013 season.

“John is a great addition to the Mansfield Athletic Department,” said Decker. “I’m excited to have him working with the soccer program and I’m looking forward to the upcoming season.”

Shaffer also brings club coaching experience, training a variety of teams within the STN Northpenn organization for the past six years, including five years of coaching girls U13 – U18 teams. With STN, Shaffer created team training plans, assisted players in the college recruiting process, and served as the goalie specific coach for two years.

“I’m honored to have this opportunity,” explained Shaffer. “It’s a dream job in a dream location for me. I hope to create a positive culture and solid foundation for the future of the program.”

Shaffer received a bachelor’s of education from Kutztown University in 2007 and a masters of education from Edinboro University in 2011. He holds certificates from the NSCAA/United Soccer Coaches and earned a U.S. Soccer E License.

Scott Austin will return as the assistant women’s soccer coach for the 2018 season.

The Mountaineers travel to Bloomsburg University on Aug. 30 for the season opener before hosting the University of Pitt-Johnstown on Sept. 1.