BURLINGTON, Vt. — UVM field hockey head coach Kate Pfeifer announced Thursday that Marlee McClendon has been promoted to Associate Head Coach heading into the 2026 season.

"Marlee has been a critical part of UVM field hockey's recent success," said Pfeifer. "Her work as our program's recruiting coordinator has yielded important relationships that have been the difference in securing top prospects. She is fully committed to her role, to our student-athletes' development, and to winning on the pitch. I am so grateful to work with her every day; she has certainly earned this promotion."

McClendon enters her fourth season with the Catamounts after helping guide Vermont to one of the most successful campaigns in program history. Last season, Vermont captured its first America East regular-season title, advanced to its second straight America East Championship game, and hosted the America East Playoffs for the first time in program history. 

McClendon oversees the team's defensive unit and penalty corner defense, coordinates travel logistics, and serves as the primary scout for opponents. With her promotion to associate head coach, she will also take on additional responsibilities involving the team's attacking strategies. She serves on multiple departmental committees and helped lead Vermont to a 1.58 goals-against average last season. The Catamounts posted six shutouts throughout the regular season. They allowed just one goal during the America East Playoffs, defeating Maine 1-0 in the semifinals (3-1 shootout) to advance to a second consecutive championship game before falling to New Hampshire.

Following the season, Pfeifer, McClendon, and assistant coach Haley Buffenbarger were named America East Coaching Staff of the Year. Abby Wilber ranked fourth in the conference with two defensive saves, while Sophia Lefranc added one. Maddy Weaver earned All-Conference Second Team honors, and Fiona McMahon was named to the America East All-Rookie Team.

For news and updates about the Vermont Field Hockey program, follow @UVMfieldhky on Instagram, X, and Facebook, and visit UVMathletics.com