WAYNE, N.J. – Former Pioneer student-athlete and assistant Matt Heitmann '14 has been selected to lead the William Paterson men's soccer program as its head coach. 
  
Heitmann just completed his 11th season as a member of the WP coaching staff in 2021 -- eight as an assistant coach (2014-21), two as an undergraduate assistant coach (2011-12), and one as a volunteer assistant coach (2013). He replaces Brian Woods, who retired after 30 seasons as the Pioneers' head coach.
  
"It is an honor to be given the opportunity to be head coach at a university and program that has given me so much joy in life," said Heitmann. "I would like to thank Coach Woods for all his wisdom and guidance over the years. I am excited to continue the tradition of leading a program that focuses on the success of its student-athletes while competing for championships." 
 
Heitmann (2007-10) was a standout in the Pioneer defensive third, earning selections to the 2010 All-New Jersey Athletic Conference (NJAC) First Team and National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) South Atlantic All-Region Third Team, the 2009 All-NJAC Second Team and the 2008 All-NJAC Honorable Mention. A starter in 17 of 19 matches as a senior, the back had one goal and an assist, including the tying goal for his first career score in a 2-1 win at Kean. The 2008 ECAC Metro Region Tournament Most Outstanding Player, he had a goal and two assists while starting 73 of 77 career matches and helped lead WP to the second round of the 2010 NCAA Tournament.
  
"We are thrilled to have Coach Heitmann take over our men's soccer program," said Director of Intercollegiate Athletics and Recreation Kristen Foley. "His passion and enthusiasm for the college game is infectious, and translates to his recruiting and his work with our student-athletes. From his outstanding playing days as a former WP student-athlete through his assistant coaching role, Matt is more than ready to usher in this new era of men's soccer."  
  
In addition to coaching the Pioneers, Heitmann has also worked with FC Motown (United Soccer League 2, National Premier Soccer League, U23; 2020-current). 
  
Heitmann has played for New Jersey Blaze (National Premier Soccer League; 2009-11), Motown FC (Garden State Soccer League; 2011-15). 
  
A native of Westwood, N.J., Heitmann was awarded a William Paterson bachelor's degree in exercise science in 2014. He holds a United States Soccer Federation (USSF) "C" License and NSCAA National Diploma.  

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