The seventh coach in the program’s 13 year history, Laura Behnke heads into her sixth year on the sidelines for the Highlanders in 2016.
A lifelong sports enthusiast, Behnke most recently spent time within the girls soccer program at Covenant Day School located in Matthews, NC. Prior to her stint at Covenant, Behnke served as an assistant at her alma mater for both the varsity girls’ soccer and basketball programs at Hawthorne Christian Academy in North Jersey.
In addition to her coaching responsibilities with the Defenders, she acted as the head strength and conditioning coordinator for both programs, developing sport specific workouts for each team.
“I am extremely excited to be the head coach for the women’s soccer team,” Behnke reflected following her hiring. “It is my goal for this team to imitate Christ’s character on and off the field as well as exemplify leadership, integrity, and sportsmanship throughout the league, campus, and community. I want this team to strive for success by never settling for anything less than leaving everything on the field."
Boasting an extensive background in the area of fitness and training, Behnke spent several years as a personal trainer and nutrition coach before relocating to North Carolina. She graduated from Messiah College in 2006 with a Sport and Exercise Science degree along with a minor in Nutrition and Dietetics.
A four year starter on the soccer team during her high school days at Hawthorne, Behnke was a three year member of the All-County Team, garnering Second Team accolades following her senior campaign. A two-sport athlete, Behnke also shined on the hardwood, picking up Defensive Player of the Year Honors during her sophomore season.
“Success starts with building a strong foundation. I am looking forward to building this program up through hard work, dedication, and team unity. I want the girls to take pride in Highlander soccer,” she noted.
Behnke currently resides in Langhorne, PA.
Coaching Records
