DENVER – MSU Denver is proud to announce the hiring of Katie Hooker as the new head coach of the Roadrunners women's soccer program. With nearly two decades of coaching experience at the collegiate level and a distinguished playing career, Hooker brings a wealth of knowledge, leadership, and passion to the program.
 
"We are thrilled to welcome Katie to the MSU Denver family," Athletic Director Todd Thurman stated. "Her experience, leadership, and passion for the game make her the perfect fit to lead our women's soccer program into the future."
Hooker joins MSU Denver after a highly successful tenure with the University of Denver, where she spent 19 years as both an assistant and volunteer assistant coach. During that time, she played a key role in developing a successful program that secured 11 NCAA tournament appearances, 11 conference championships, and a Sweet 16 run. Her experience in recruitment, player development, and game strategy makes her an invaluable addition to the Roadrunners' coaching staff.
"I'm honored and humbled to accept this job and be the next head coach at MSU Denver," Hooker said. "There's such a rich tradition here in this program that I feel my experience as a player and a coach will allow me the opportunity to jump on board and guide this team. These players want to win, and I want to help them. I'm excited as the athletic department as a whole is very supportive, and as I get to know the players, I'm learning how eager and mature they are in what it means to be great and the hard work it takes to get there."
A former professional player, Hooker has experienced soccer at its highest levels. After an impressive collegiate career at Iowa State and the University of Denver, she went on to play professionally for Sky Blue FC and the San Jose CyberRays. That firsthand experience as both a collegiate and professional athlete gives her a unique perspective on the game and an ability to mentor players preparing for high-level competition.
"It takes timing and patience to be successful," Hooker explained. "Timing in the soccer world affects how we recruit, develop talent, and prepare players both mentally and physically to perform at their best. Patience is everything in between—helping players acclimate, pushing them toward academic success, and guiding them to gain confidence and enjoyment in the game they love."
Her deep ties to the Colorado soccer community and knowledge of the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) make her an ideal fit for MSU Denver. She has worked alongside some of the program's most respected figures, including former Roadrunners head coaches Adrianne Almaraz Pietz and Danny Sanchez—both of whom have played instrumental roles in shaping the history of MSU Denver soccer.
"Adrianne and I grew up playing together in Bakersfield, learning from the same great coach," Hooker said. "Danny coached me for years at the semi-pro level here in Colorado. Having that connection to the program's history makes this opportunity even more meaningful."
Hooker's vision for the program extends beyond just wins and losses. She emphasizes building a strong, resilient, and unified team culture, where players develop not only as athletes but also as leaders and students.
"Players need a place to grow as young adults, both in the classroom and on the field," Hooker said. "MSU Denver provides rigorous academics, and I want to create a welcoming yet challenging environment for our student-athletes. They need to be pushed and comfortable all at the same time."
With preseason preparations underway, Hooker is eager to get to work, implementing her philosophy and pushing the team to reach new heights.
"I look forward to coaching and mentoring these young women every day," she said. "I want to create an exciting and healthy atmosphere where they can thrive, compete, and build lifelong memories through this sport."
As the Roadrunners gear up for the upcoming season, fans can expect an energized and determined team under Hooker's leadership. With her wealth of experience, competitive spirit, and commitment to player development, MSU Denver is poised for continued success in the RMAC and beyond.