This will be the first head coaching position for Bard, who helped Salisbury win the 2003 Division III national championship. William Paterson conducted a national search for the coach.

“Lindsay joins William Paterson after playing and coaching at one of the elite field hockey programs in Division III,” said Sabrina Grant, director of athletics. “I am most impressed with her experience, pride and enthusiasm.”

Bard mainly worked with Salisbury’s defense last season and helped mold a unit that ranked second in Division III in scoring defense, allowing 14 goals in 21 games (0.67 goals per game) while producing 13 shutouts. She also mentored the Sea Gulls’ midfielders, forwards and goalkeepers.

Bard drew upon her expertise as a four-year starter for the Sea Gulls, when she helped them reach the NCAA Tournament in each of her seasons, including semifinal appearances in 2000 and 2002. Salisbury went 65-14 in Bard’s career and captured four Capital Athletic Conference championships.

In addition, she was selected to the All-South Region first-team in 2002 and was named to the National Field Hockey Coaches Association’s Division III National Academic Squad three times.

“I’m very excited about this opportunity, to be at William Paterson and to be back in New Jersey,” said Bard, a native of Linwood who graduated from Mainland Regional High School in 1999. “I had a very well-rounded and versatile career at Salisbury. I feel confident that what I’ve learned will help me at William Paterson.”

Bard replaces Hallie Cohen, who had coached the Pioneers the previous nine years. Cohen will remain at William Paterson as the head softball coach.