BROOKVILLE, N.Y. – Long Island University has a new Head Women’s Soccer Coach: Jim O’Brien. He brings a wealth of experience with a coaching career spanning over 24 years and a solid record of 236 wins, 172 losses, and 52 draws.
O’Brien started coaching at his alma mater, Southern Connecticut State University. From 1996 to 2004, he built the program from the ground up. Under his leadership, the team achieved a commendable record of 105 wins and 56 losses. In 2000, O’Brien led the Owls to win the Northeast 10 regular season title and reach the NCAA Division II quarterfinals, a significant achievement for the program.
He then took his talents to Fairfield University, where he became the school’s all-time winningest women’s soccer coach over 13 seasons. His record there was 119 wins, 99 losses, and 41 draws. O’Brien guided the Stags to two Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference tournament titles and NCAA tournament appearances in 2005 and 2008. His coaching skills earned him accolades as the northeast region coach of the year in 2008 and conference coach of the year in 2012.
After Fairfield, O’Brien briefly served at Mercy University, leading the Mavericks to a strong 12-3-2 record in his single season there. Notably, he helped develop top players, including an All-American and multiple all-conference selections. Most recently, he was an assistant coach at Stony Brook from 2019 to 2023, where he contributed to the team winning America East Conference championships in 2019 and 2021.
O’Brien holds degrees in corporate communications and recreation and leisure. He was recently inducted into the Connecticut Soccer Hall of Fame, a testament to his impact on the sport.
O’Brien expressed his excitement about joining LIU, stating, “I am very excited and grateful to become a part of Shark Nation. LIU is a great destination for top-flight student-athletes who value a great academic and Division I college experience.” He’s already preparing for the upcoming season.
The women’s soccer team kicks off its season against Manhattan University on August 15, followed by a home opener against Saint Peter’s University on August 24. With O’Brien at the helm, fans are eager to see what this season holds.
Research shows that successful coaching can significantly impact team performance. A comprehensive study published in the Journal of Sports Sciences highlights that coaching experience correlates with team success. O’Brien’s extensive background suggests he could positively shape the future of LIU’s women’s soccer program.
