Editor’s note: As part of a running New England Soccer Journal series, we’re profiling Division I programs in the region. Even with the COVID-19 pandemic disrupting college soccer, there’s plenty going on behind the scenes.
When Phil Pincince (Woonsocket, R.I.) retired as head coach of Brown women’s soccer in 2015, he left big boots to fill. His departure marked the end of an era that spanned 39 years, 12 Ivy League titles and six NCAA tournament appearances.
But his successor, Kia McNeill (Avon, Conn.), was equal to the challenge. A highly-respected New England soccer figure in her own right, McNeill was an All-American at Boston College and a six-year professional defender, including a stint with the Boston Breakers.