NORTHFIELD, Vt. - Assistant Coach Taylor Willard of the Norwich University women's ice hockey team will be stepping down from her post to pursue a Division I opportunity.

"It has been an absolute honor to be part of the Norwich family over the past four years," Willard said. "I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunity to work with such committed student-athletes and to grow both personally and professionally within this exceptional program. The impact that Norwich, the players, and Sophie have had on me has been profound, and I wouldn't be the coach or person I am today without them. Leaving was far from an easy decision, but I'm excited for the next chapter in my coaching career.

Thank you to Norwich University, the administration, and the athletic department for their unwavering support. A special thank you to Sophie for believing in me, mentoring me, and becoming a lifelong friend. And most importantly, thank you to the student athletes that I have had the privilege to coach. Norwich will always hold a special place in my heart, and I'll be cheering for the program's continued success every step of the way."

Willard completed her fourth season at Norwich this past season. In each of her four seasons, she oversaw a defense that finished in the top 15 in Division III in goals against average, never allowing more than 1.6 goals per game in a season. Additionally, Willard managed an elite penalty-killing unit the last two seasons, with a success rate of 95.3% in 2023-24 (a program record), and 92.9% in 2024-25 (second in program history).

"I'm incredibly proud of Taylor and excited to see her take this next step in her coaching journey at the Division I level," said departing Head Coach Sophie Leclerc Doherty. "Over the past four years, Taylor has been an invaluable part of our program — not only in developing our student-athletes on the ice, but in building a culture of integrity through her relationship with the players.  Taylor's passion for the game and commitment to our team were second to none, and I am extremely grateful to have had the opportunity to work together."

A native of Naperville, Ill., Willard patrolled the blueline at the University of Vermont (UVM), logging 145 games over her collegiate career, totaling 62 points, the most by a defenseman in program history. After a year with the Montreal Canadiennes of the Canadian Women's Hockey League, she returned to UVM as a volunteer assistant for two seasons before coming to Northfield.

"Taylor is an amazing hockey coach, but an even better person," said Justin Simpson, who will be assuming the role of Head Women's Hockey Coach for the 2025-26 season.  "While we are sad to see Taylor leave, our program is thrilled for this next step in her coaching journey. While Taylor will not be with our team next season, she will always be a part of this program! Taylor's impact on Norwich, the Northfield community, our hockey program, and our student athletes is immeasurable. The coaches and student athletes at Taylor's next school are so fortunate to get to work with her, I know she will positively impact their lives on and off the ice. Thank you for all you've given Norwich Taylor!"

A nationwide search for a new assistant coach is currently underway.