Belmont hires former ETSU coach to lead women’s soccer

Belmont announced the hiring of former East Tennessee State head soccer coach Heather Henson on Wednesday. Henson is replacing former BU coach Lisa Howe, who garnered national media attention after her controversial exit from the university in December.

“Heather Henson brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success to our program,” Belmont athletic director Mike Strickland said. “Her commitment to student-athlete development, academics and service speaks for itself.”

Henson resigned from ETSU after 12 years on Dec. 1, 2010. She finished last season with a record of 8-7-3.

““I am honored to join the Belmont family, and I know the team is ready to get to work,” Henson said. “My focus now is the success of Belmont’s women’s soccer team and our players.”

In her 12 years at ETSU, Henson posted a 4-6 record against the Lady Bruins, including a 2-4 record against Howe-coached Belmont teams.

Henson’s husband, Chris, was still listed as the Assistant Athletic Director of Alumni Giving on ETSU’s athletics website on Wednesday night.

She and her family are back in East Tennessee preparing for the transition.

Last month, sophomore forward Lauren Paynter said she was looking forward to getting a balanced coach.

“As far as coaching, I really like coaches that are very personable and their main focus is to make sure the team is doing OK as a whole,” Paynter said. “But I also like coaches that are very demanding and like to push you a lot.”

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