WORCESTER, Mass. – Worcester State University’s Director of Athletics, Michael Mudd, has named Alexa Carlson the interim head coach of the Lancers’ field hockey team, effective immediately, as head coach Kim Cosenza had to take a leave of absence for the 2016 season.

“We feel that Alexa will do a terrific job in an interim capacity leading the field hockey team for this season while Kim Cosenza attends to a family matter,” stated Mudd. 

Carlson assisted on the sidelines last year alongside Cosenza and assisted in guiding the team to a winning record and a Little East Conference (LEC) semifinal game.

“I am so excited and honored to be given the opportunity to serve as the interim head coach for the upcoming season,” commented Carlson.  “I have learned and grown so much as a coach while being an assistant for Kim Cosenza over the last few years and I am confident these amazing student-athletes will rise to the occasion for a very successful season.”

Prior to her first year with the Lancers, Carlson coached alongside Cosenza at Elms College after graduating from Springfield College where she was a four-year standout field hockey player. 

“I have no doubt that with Alexa’s strong playing background as well as her experience serving under Kim Cosenza last year as an Assistant Coach, that she will be able to continue the positive direction of the field hockey program,” added Mudd.

“We have a phenomenal group of returning players this season and will also be welcoming an impressive incoming class of first years,” said Carlson.  “I am thrilled to be working with these fine young woman and excited to see what this season has in store of us.”