An awarded woman’s soccer coach is joining the UBC Okanagan Heat.

Former CCAA National Coach of the Year, Claire Paterson, has accepted the position of head coach of the women’s soccer team.

Paterson was recognized as the 2006 Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference and Canadian Colleges Athletic Association Women’s Soccer National Coach of the Year.

Born in Scotland and raised in Prince George, she has a bachelor’s degree in physical education, and is currently completing her master’s degree in coaching with the University of Alberta.

Her coaching experience includes five years as head coach of the women’s team at The King’s University College in Alberta, and six years as the Alberta Soccer Association’s Provincial Team Select coach.

In addition, she has coached a number of Alberta provincial and Canada Games teams to medals and championships.

Currently, she is coaching the Kelowna U16 Girls Super Y League team and is an instructor for Kelowna United in their camps and academy programs.

“I am really pleased to have Claire join our staff. Her combination of technical knowledge, competitive nature and wealth of experience make her an excellent addition to our department,” said Rob Johnson, UBC Okanagan Director of Athletics and Recreation.

“It is a pleasure to be working with the UBC Okanagan Women’s Soccer team,” says Paterson. “I am looking forward to contributing to the development of the program.”