Chambana Sun

The University of Illinois has appointed Katie Hultin as the head coach for its women's soccer team. The announcement was made by Josh Whitman, the university's Director of Athletics, on Tuesday. Hultin's five-year contract is pending approval by the UI Board of Trustees at their January meeting.

Hultin returns to Illinois after a successful period at Grand Valley State University (GVSU), where she led the Lakers to two NCAA Tournament regional titles and one GLIAC regular season and tournament championship over three years. "We are incredibly excited to welcome Katie Hultin as the fourth head coach of Fighting Illini soccer," Whitman said. He praised her record and experience, stating, "She understands the proud tradition of the Fighting Illini and is eager to build on the foundation left by Coach Rayfield."

During her tenure at GVSU, Hultin achieved an overall record of 45-7-19 (.768) and a conference play mark of 26-3-13 (.774). Her coaching career also includes positions at Michigan, Oregon, and Seattle University.

In her last season with GVSU, Hultin led her team to a 15-1-8 record and secured a No. 3 seed in the Midwest Region of the DII NCAA Tournament. She also coached several award-winning players during her time there.

"I am beyond thrilled to be the next head coach for Illinois women's soccer," said Hultin. She expressed gratitude towards Whitman and Illinois administration for their trust in her vision for the team's future.

Hultin began her coaching career at Seattle University before joining Illinois as a goalkeeper coach under Janet Rayfield in 2014. Her success continued through subsequent roles at Oregon and Michigan.

Rayfield commented on Hultin's appointment: "My confidence continues to grow with the announcement of Katie Hultin as the next head coach... Her vast experience and knowledge... make Katie a perfect fit for this program."

Originally from Denver, Colorado, Hultin played professionally after graduating from Washington State University in 2005. She lives with her wife Susan and their three children.