BENNINGTON, Vt. – Southern Vermont College Director of Athletics Michael McDonough announced Thursday the appointment of Joe Baia as the head coach of the College's men's soccer program starting for the 2014 season.

Baia comes to SVC after serving as the assistant coach for the University of Rochester men's soccer team in 2013, being part of the University Athletic Association Men's Soccer Coaching Staff of the Year. At Rochester, Baia worked with players on technical and strength & conditioning training, assisted in recruiting and scouting, and facilitated camps and clinics in addition to day-to-day operations. He helped lead the team to a Sweet 16 appearance in the 2013 National Collegiate Athletic Association tournament.

"I am extremely excited to have been given the opportunity to work with SVC Athletics," said Baia. "I am very grateful to lead the men's soccer program and begin the process of becoming a conference contender while helping to develop our student-athletes personally, academically, and athletically."

In addition to his coaching experience at Rochester, Baia was a graduate assistant at SUNY Brockport for two years and was the head coach of the Rochester Futbol Club Boys U15 team. Baia is currently completing his USSF C license which is focused on the close relationship between technique and tactics.

"I would like to thank my colleagues at the University of Rochester, SUNY Brockport, and Rochester Futbol Club for offering me the variety of high-level coaching endeavors and professional development necessary to make an impact with my own program here at SVC," Baia added.

Baia graduated with a Bachelor's of Science in Movement and Sports Studies from Springfield College in 2011 before moving on to Brockport where he earned his Master's in Physical Education/Athletic Administration, graduating in 2013.

"We are very excited to have Coach Baia at the helm of our men's soccer program," commented McDonough. "Joe has been a part of some great collegiate soccer programs as a player and a coach. His enthusiasm for continuing the rise of men's soccer at SVC is over the top."

Baia and Southern Vt. will start the 2014 season on August 30 at the Lyndon Kick-Off Tournament.