WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. Octavia Saunders has been named Head Soccer Coach for the Salem College Spirits. The UK native will be at the helm of the Salem College soccer team looking to build on the historic success of the program.

"I'm so grateful for the opportunity to lead the Salem soccer program and work for an educational institution that takes full pride in all of their students," said Coach Saunders. "My goal, and what I see for the future of Salem soccer, is to continue and build upon their successes and form a true Salem soccer family."

Saunders brings a wealth of knowledge to the Spirits for the 2018 season after most recently spending three years as the assistant coach at Brevard College where she helped them reach an 11-6-1 record, a program best since joining the NCAA. While with the Tornados, she also worked for the North Carolina Olympic Development Program and the Highland Football Club.

"I would like to thank the Salem College Athletic Director, Trish Hughes, who has given me this opportunity to take on the Salem soccer program. I would also like to thank Juan Mascaro, my mentor from Brevard College, who has helped me grow into the coach I am today."

Coach Saunders was a standout on the field as she started every match for the Montevallo Falcons. Her leadership ability was noted as she was named captain for her junior and senior seasons. Success translated to the classroom for Saunders as well, as she was named to the Peach Belt Conference Presidential Honor Roll three times. Saunders earned a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from the University of Montevallo.