Head women's lacrosse coach Karen Atkinson '11 steps down, will return as field hockey head coach

SALEM, Mass. -- Head women's lacrosse coach Karen Atkinson '11 has announced her decision to step away from the program after two seasons. Coach Atkinson will remain as the head field hockey coach at Salem State. Athletic Director Nicolle Wood added, "Karen has demonstrated the ability to be a great coach and mentor while juggling the demands of coaching two sports. We are happy that she will be remaining with us to continue to lead our field hockey program and expand on their recent success going forward."

Atkinson was promoted to interim women's lacrosse coach in 2022. A native of Reading, Mass., Atkinson, who graduated with honors from Salem State University in 2011, earned a degree in Sport and Movement Science with a concentration in Fitness/Wellness. She was a three-year field hockey player for the Vikings.

"I have thoroughly enjoyed my time as both the head women's lacrosse and field hockey coach at Salem State University. With this decision I will be able to focus primarily on our field hockey program moving forward. I appreciate the support from our athletic department in making this possible." 

A search for the new part time head women's lacrosse coach will begin immediately. Interested applicants should email Director of Athletics, Nicolle Wood at nwood@salemstate.edu