The University of Wisconsin and Athletic Director Barry Alvarez welcomed the newest member to its athletic department Thursday, hiring Paula Wilkins as the new women's soccer coach.
Wilkins had been head coach at Penn State since 2001, and Alvarez seemed very enthusiastic about filling the coaching position.
""I am absolutely thrilled that we are adding a coach with Paula's background and abilities to our department,"" Alvarez said. ""She has been a winner as a student-athlete, assistant coach and head coach. Our women's soccer program is in very good hands.""
Wilkins compiled an astounding 119-19-11 (.836) record in six seasons as Penn State's head coach. The Nittany Lions earned six NCAA tournament berths, including two College Cup appearances during her tenure. In addition, Penn State has won a pair of Big Ten tournament titles on top of the last six Big Ten regular season championships.
Even with all of her past accomplishments, Wilkins does not let her success go to her head and still believes that she can grow as a coach.
""I'm very excited about the opportunity to coach at Wisconsin,"" Wilkins said. ""I will always cherish the years I had at Penn State and I am proud of what we accomplished there. But I also believe in continuing to challenge myself and this move will be an opportunity for me to improve as a coach as well as build a program that consistently wins at a high level. I can't wait to get started.""
