DARTMOUTH, Mass. – University of Massachusetts Dartmouth Head Volleyball Coach
Samantha Amaral has stepped down after six seasons guiding the Corsairs to pursue other opportunities.
"Over the last five years I have had the honor of being the UMass Dartmouth volleyball coach," said Amaral. "Throughout those years, we have battled to become the program we are today. First time in program history, and first time in a decade or more are words that were spoke about this program during my tenure. I am so proud of the girls, their commitment, passion and dedication to the team. As I step down as head coach, I will hold the memories of the laughter and tears from the locker room, the dance parties on the bus, and the celebrations in the gym. It has truly been an honor to be the head coach here. Thank you!".
Amaral was hired in December of 2016 and was tasked with rebuilding the Corsairs up the ladder in the Little East Conference and New England Region. After a two-year stretch where the team only played four games due to COVID-19, Amaral stayed the course and led UMass Dartmouth to the LEC Tournament for the first time in 11 years in 2021.
2021 was a landmark year for the program. Along with making the LEC Tournament for the first time since the 2010 season, the team beat Keene State for the first time in 17 years, took down Framingham State for the first time since 2012 and defeated Southern Maine for the first time in six years.
"During Sam's six years with UMass Dartmouth, she rebuilt the volleyball program," said Interim Director of Athletics and Recreation,
Linda Moulton. "Her love of the sport, passion, technical knowledge, and significant success in recruiting have raised the program's profile and put the team on a competitive course. We will miss Sam, but remain grateful for her dedication to developing a competitive program. On behalf of the department, we wish her and her family the very best."
"To the girls, work hard, stay focused, and fight for each other! I am so proud of you all. Thank you for all you taught me. With love, coach."
Amaral steps down tied fourth all-time in wins in program history with 54.
