Mason, Richards, Tominovich, and Gutierrez Named 2024 NCAA DII National Coaching Staff of the Year
By: Delanie Gearing, Assistant Director of Athletic Communications
POMONA, Calif. – The United Soccer Coaches have named head coach Jay Mason, assistant coaches Dan Richards and Emilee Tominovich, and program associate Andy Gutierrez the 2024 NCAA DII National Coaching Staff of the Year, recognizing their exceptional leadership and dedication in guiding the Cal Poly Pomona Women's Soccer team to its first-ever National Title.
Mason, in his 8th season as head coach, has transformed the Broncos into a powerhouse in NCAA Division II soccer. In 2023, Mason led the team to its first-ever CCAA regular season title, a feat they repeated in 2024. Under his guidance, the Broncos finished the 2024 season with an outstanding 22-1-2 overall record, including 8-1-2 in conference play.
Over his tenure, the Broncos have compiled an overall record of 82-48-23 and a CCAA mark of 46-27-19, cementing his legacy as one of the most successful coaches in program history. This season, Mason was named both West Regional Coach of the Year and CCAA Coach of the Year. His career includes numerous accomplishments, most notably leading the Broncos to their first-ever NCAA DII National Championship, a historic milestone for the program.
Richards, now in his 10th season as assistant coach, has been a vital contributor to the team's success. His extensive experience, technical expertise, and tireless behind-the-scenes work have been instrumental in shaping the team's strategy and player development, playing a key role in the Broncos' national championship run.
Tominovich, in her second year as assistant coach, has quickly made a significant impact. Her strategic insight and strong rapport with players have been essential in enhancing the team's performance, helping them remain a dominant force throughout the season.
Additionally, Gutierrez, who served as the program associate goalkeeping coach in his first season, played a key role in developing the team's strong defensive foundation and supporting the goalkeepers throughout the campaign.
In recognition of the staff's collective achievement, Athletic Director Brian Swanson praised their unwavering focus and commitment: "Coach Mason, our assistant coaches, and our women's soccer student-athletes had a clear, focused goal heading into the season. With a strong returning core and a highly skilled recruiting class, I couldn't be happier to see the success culminate in the 2024 NCAA National Championship. Coach Mason and his staff put our student-athletes in a position to succeed, and it's a credit to the hard work, talent, and dedication of the team that they became champions. I am happy for Coaches Mason, Richards, Tominovich, and Gutierrez and the well-earned recognition bestowed on them. It was a magical 2024 season, and we continue to be excited about the future of Cal Poly Pomona Women's Soccer under Coach Mason, our staff, and our student-athletes."
This prestigious honor recognizes the outstanding contributions of Coach Mason, Richards, Tominovich, and Gutierrez in building a championship-caliber program at Cal Poly Pomona. Their leadership, vision, and commitment to excellence have set a new standard for success both on and off the field, earning them the 2024 National Coaching Staff of the Year award for their historic accomplishments.
— Cal Poly Pomona Broncos (@cppbroncos) January 6, 2025
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