RICHMOND, Ky. – Kristen Washburn has joined the Eastern Kentucky University soccer staff as an assistant coach, head coach Matt Cosinuke announced on Wednesday.
 
"We are very excited to have Kristen join our family," Cosinuke said. "Through this entire process, Kristen's drive, work ethic and personality were exactly what we were looking for. She is an exceptional person with high character, and she will be an outstanding example for our women. Kristen and Morgan Ferrara both have a strong presence, and their personalities compliment mine. I feel great about the future of the EKU soccer family, and I look forward to the 2019 season!"
 
Washburn comes to EKU from the College of William & Mary, where she served as a volunteer assistant coach during the 2018 season.
 
Washburn was also an assistant coach at Virginia Military Institute (VMI) from 2013 to 2015, while serving as an ROTC instructor on campus. The Keydets recorded one of the best seasons in program history in 2015, winning six matches and advancing to the quarterfinals of the Southern Conference Tournament.
 
"I am very grateful for the opportunity to join Matt and the EKU soccer family," Washburn said. "I knew this would be great fit the minute I walked on campus and I am excited for the upcoming season."
 
Prior to entering the coaching realm, Washburn was a standout player at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland from 2005 to 2009. She appeared in 65 matches with 18 starts, recording six goals, 11 assists and 23 points during her four-year career. Washburn helped the Mids to 60 wins, a pair of Patriot League Tournament titles, two Patriot League regular season championships and two berths in the NCAA Tournament. She also played one season for the Navy women's lacrosse program.
  
Washburn served in the U.S. Navy from 2009 to 2018. She earned her degree in International Relations and Foreign Policy from the Naval Academy in 2009.  She is currently enrolled in a sports industry management master's program at Georgetown University.