University of St. Thomas Athletics
Vick Vargas gets expanded role on Women's Soccer coaching staff
7/16/2021 11:00:00 AM | Women's Soccer
A familiar face will take on an expanded role for Tommie Women's Soccer in 2021 as it prepares for its first season of Division I play in the Summit League. Former St. Thomas player and part-time coach Victoria Vargas will continue with Coach Sheila McGill's staff, now in a full-time assistant's role.
Vargas has worked as a Tommie assistant coach the last two seasons. The San Diego native played for St. Thomas from 2012-15, serving as a team captain during her senior season. It was through her captaincy with the program that inspired her to consider a coaching career.
Over the last two seasons with Vargas contributing on McGill's staff, the Tommies built a 22-2-5 record with 20 shutouts, and closed the Division III chapter with a 22-game unbeaten streak (17-0-5). The 2019 team claimed MIAC regular-season and playoff championships and tied for fifth place nationally.
Vargas also has coached at the high school level, as well as assisting in the US Soccer Development Academy ages GU15, GU17 and GU19 for Shattuck St. Mary's School. Her latest experience was working with U19 Girls in the Premier 2 Division of National League's Midwest Conference. She holds a USSF National 'C' License.
"I'm extremely excited to welcome Coach Vargas into our women's soccer family in this expanded role," McGill said. "While here as a player, Vick brought grit, team unity and fantastic defending. Her knowledge of our St. Thomas team chemistry, recruiting experience, and player development will be invaluable for our program as we prepare for the Summit League."
Vargas said it's a special opportunity for her at such a unique moment for St. Thomas Athletics.
"I am so excited to be a part of the coaching staff at St. Thomas," Vargas explained. "This university is both my alma mater and my home away from home. Becoming a D-I school is a huge accomplishment, and I am proud of the opportunity to contribute to our success during this historic time. Roll Toms!"
Starting in fall 2021, St. Thomas is making an unprecedented move in all 21 varsity sports directly from NCAA Division III into Division I. Women's Soccer is one of 18 Tommie sports that will compete in the Summit League. All 10 Summit schools compete in women's soccer.
