BETHLEHEM, Pa. - Northampton Director of Athletics Troy Tucker has announced that Marissa Mariano has been named Head Coach of the Spartan Softball program.  A native of Williamsville, NY, Mariano comes to Northampton after spending last season as an Assistant Coach at NCAA Division III Plattsburgh State University in Plattsburgh, NY.

"We are really excited about Coach Mariano joining our staff," remarked Tucker, "she brings a wealth of knowledge from her playing career and her time as an assistant coach at Buffalo State College and Plattsburgh and I believe she has the work ethic and and attitude to take our all ready successful program to the next level."

A graduate of Buffalo State College, Mariano was a First Team All-SUNYAC selection during her playing days, in addition to being named to the NCAA Regional All-Tournament Team.  Mariano started her playing career at Division II Mercyhurst College (Erie, PA), before transferring to Buffalo State.

Mariano will also serve as the Assistant to the Athletic Director, overseeing events, travel arrangements and other day-to-day operations.

Northampton completed the 2014 season with an 18-13 record, finishing 3rd in the Region XIX Tournament after advancing to their sixth consecutive Region XIX Final Four.