By Evan Doan, Sports Editor
Aquinas College welcomed three new coaches to the athletic staff this year; Women’s Soccer will be led by Mario Zuniga-Gil, Taelynn Otte will be behind the bench for Women’s Hockey and Jen Laskey will coach Cheer and Stunt. While each coach navigates their first year at Aquinas, they will face unique challenges.
New Head Coaches for Women’s Hockey, Cheer & Stunt and Women’s Soccer – Photo by Aquinas Athletics
Zuniga-Gil is no stranger to collegiate success. He was an assistant coach for the University of Michigan, Grand Valley State University and Calvin University to conference championships and deep post season runs.
The Women’s Soccer team has had no shortage of success in recent years winning four WHAC regular season and tournament championships in the last six years including going undefeated in conference play in 2021 and 2022. The Saints have made the national tournament six times and were one win away from reaching the NAIA final site in Pensacola, Fla. last year.
Zuniga-Gil brings in an experienced class of transfers to bolster a veteran midfield and emerging attack. He also revived the reserve team after a year hiatus.
The Saints took a tough 1-0 loss to Spring Arbor in game one, but look to bounce back against Saint Xavier (IL) Aug. 26.
Even though Taelynn Otte is coaching a collegiate team for the first time in her career, she still brings a wealth of college experience. The former NCAA D1 captain for Lindenwood University looks to develop Aquinas into a national contender much like she did her previous team.
Otte comes from coaching and directing the Grand Rapids Amateur Hockey Association. During her time she coached four state championships and made appearances in six national championships and developed multiple collegiate players.
“I have worked very hard on player development which I am excited to transfer to the college level,” Otte said.
Otte looks to start in the weight room with an emphasis on remaining healthy while educating players on injury prevention through weight training.
“Being able to coach the same players for four to five years will allow a lot of time for player development and personal growth. I am looking forward to watching this team develop and establish a culture that sticks here at AQ. This year’s team will be key members in AQ women’s hockey history to create a competitive supportive environment. Winning games will come as the culture grows and players start playing as a team.”
“The relationships I have made with players and coaches from all different club teams will enhance the recruitment process and get AQ Women’s Hockey on the map,” Otte said. “A future goal I have is to qualify for Nationals and make appearances constantly. The end goal will be to bring home the National Championship to AQ.”
The women’s hockey team will kick off Otte’s tenure at Aquinas at home on Friday Sept. 25 against Michigan State University. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. at Southside Ice Arena in Byron Center, Mich.
The Saint 