STANDISH, Maine — Saint Joseph's College of Maine women's basketball head coach Chris Woodside has announced the addition of Samantha Mason and Olivia McNally to the Monks' coaching staff. Both bring Division III playing experience and a commitment to player development.
"I'm extremely excited to welcome Sammy and Olivia to our program," said Woodside. "Both bring valuable experience as former Division III players, along with a passion for teaching, developing relationships, and investing in young people. I believe they will be tremendous additions to our staff."
Mason joins the Monks after coaching girls' basketball and volleyball at Brunswick High School and gaining experience at the AAU level. A 2021 graduate of Maine Maritime Academy, she played four seasons of collegiate basketball for the Mariners after graduating from Ellsworth High School.
Outside of coaching, Mason serves as a senior supervisor of procurement at Bath Iron Works.
"I was drawn to Saint Joseph's because of the strong tradition of the women's basketball program and the opportunity to return to the Division III level in Maine as a coach," said Mason. "I'm excited to build relationships with our players and contribute to a program with a history of success."
McNally brings collegiate coaching experience and an accomplished playing career to Standish. A four-year student-athlete at the University of Maine at Presque Isle from 2010–14, she earned multiple all-conference selections and was named a USCAA Division I First Team All-American. She also received University Female Athlete of the Year honors and earned all-academic recognition.
Following her playing career, McNally began coaching as an assistant at UMPI under Doug Carter before spending two seasons coaching eighth-grade girls' basketball in Old Orchard Beach.
"I joined the Saint Joseph's College staff to become part of the program's winning culture and its commitment to high-level competition and the full development of student-athletes," said McNally. "I'm grateful for the opportunity to continue to learn and grow from Coach Woodside."
Woodside said both coaches will strengthen the program through their experience and shared commitment to helping student-athletes succeed on and off the court.
"Sammy and Olivia each bring something unique to the table, and I'm excited about the opportunity we have to learn from one another," Woodside added. "Most importantly, our players will benefit from having two more coaches invested in their development, success, and overall experience as student-athletes."
The Monks look forward to welcoming Mason and McNally to the coaching staff as they prepare for the upcoming season.
