Plattsburgh State hires trio of assistant coaches

PLATTSBURGH | Plattsburgh State's athletic department bolstered its coaching staffs ahead of the fall sports season, announcing three assistant coach hires across men's and women's soccer as well as women's volleyball. The Department of Intercollegiate Athletics and Recreation introduced Claire Said as the new assistant women's soccer coach, Tyler Harsch as the new assistant women's volleyball coach and Sergio Hernandez as the new assistant men's soccer coach. Said brings recent playing, coaching experience Said, a Manchester, New Jersey, native, comes to Plattsburgh from Post University, where she was a graduate assistant and assistant goalkeeper coach. She played as a goalkeeper for the NCAA Division II program from 2020 to 2024, serving as a team leader and co-captain in her senior season. "We are very excited to have Claire on staff," said head coach Whitney Frary. "Her experience at the Division II level and with the Red Bulls Academy brings a unique perspective that will be a tremendous asset to our program. We're looking forward to the impact she'll have both on and off the field, and are thrilled about the energy and knowledge she's bringing to the team." Said currently works as a head trainer for the New York Red Bulls Youth Program, leading training sessions and evaluating players across skill levels. In fall 2024, she was the head coach of a competitive U13 girls team with Connecticut Rush Soccer Club. Her background also includes serving as a junior coach for the Red Bulls' Summer Youth Program and assisting with scouting, training and goalkeeper development. Alumnus returns to sidelines For women's volleyball, the Cardinals turned to a recent graduate. Harsch, from West Islip, earned his bachelor's degree in business administration with minors in global supply chain management and sociology from Plattsburgh in 2024. He was heavily involved with the Plattsburgh State Volleyball Club during his undergraduate years, serving as both social media coordinator and treasurer. Alongside competing in weekly matches, he managed the club's social media accounts and organized team funds. "Tyler's passion for the game is infectious," said head coach Eimile O'Brien. "His previous playing experience, dedication to Plattsburgh Volleyball, and commitment to player development will be a huge addition to our team this season. We are very excited to be welcoming Tyler into the gym." Hernandez adds international experience The men's soccer program welcomed Hernandez, an Ossining native who played three years at Division II Chestnut Hill College. He also competed with the Westchester Flames in USL League Two before heading overseas to Portugal, where he played for Merelinense FC, S.C. Valenciano and Atlético dos Arcos. "We are excited to bring Sergio on board with Plattsburgh Soccer," said head coach Chris Taylor. "Plattsburgh is the first stop on his coaching journey, and he will bring a new perspective to the program given his varied experiences in soccer. He comes from a passionate soccer family, and he will bring that passion to our team." Hernandez's coaching resume includes serving as the Director of Goalkeepers for PA Rush Soccer Club and holding goalkeeper coaching roles in Portugal.

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Plattsburgh State hires trio of assistant coaches

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