HARRISONBURG, Va. --- Director of Athletics Carrie S. Bert has announced the hiring of Leonardo Alcoreza as the Royals Head Women's Soccer Coach.

"Coach Alcoreza brings a breadth of soccer coaching experience," Bert said. "He recognizes the opportunities that are provided by participation in collegiate athletics. His excitement at bringing women's soccer players to campus to grow the program and
increase competitiveness was evident."

"Being named the head coach at EMU is an incredible honor," Alcoreza said. "From the moment I spoke with Carrie and the rest of the athletic department, I could feel their commitment and ambition to building a strong program, and I knew this was a special opportunity. As soon as I was able to be on campus, EMU felt like the right fit; I could tell this is a place where I can make a lasting impact."

Alcoreza comes to EMU from Farmington, Connecticut where, since August, he's been on the girls staff, as well as Head Coach for the FSA United FC, a member of the Elite Clubs National League, a national youth developmental soccer league. Prior to that, from 2019-2024, he was the on the boys staff and Head Coach at Maryland United FC, also a part of ECNL. During his stint at Maryland United, he led the 2008 RL group from last place in the conference, to making the playoffs. From August, 2020 to Nov. 2023, he was also the Women's Varsity Head Soccer Coach at Park School of Baltimore.
"He has a record of proven success at other levels and an impressive roster retention history," Bert said. "Conversations with his former colleagues indicated a great level of respect for his soccer IQ and his relational coaching style with skill development and competitiveness as proof of his coaching effectiveness."

Alcoreza is no stranger to the Harrisonburg area, as he graduated from James Madison University in 2019 with a Bachelor of Science in Sport & Recreation Management. While he was at JMU, he was a member of the girls staff at Shenandoah Valley United.

He explains that he sees potential and is excited to make his mark on the Royals Women's Soccer program.

"Taking on this role means more than just coaching, it's about developing a culture of excellence," Alcoreza said. "I'm excited to be able to develop and shape a positive and hardworking culture to lead this program and help our student-athletes reach their full potential on and off the field. The potential for EMU Women's Soccer is really exciting, and I knew I wanted to be a part of it. There's a strong foundation here, and I believe we can build something really special." 

Alcoreza began his duties as head coach on March 1.