Columbia, MD - Howard Community College associate vice president of athletics Mike Smelkinson is proud to announce the appointment of Shannon Riley to become the head coach of the women's soccer program, elevating a longtime member of the Dragons athletics department into the additional role.
 
Riley brings years of experience within Howard Community College athletics to the position after serving in several key roles for the department since joining the college in 2018. Most recently, she currently serves as the assistant director of athletics for compliance and eligibility while also leading the Dragons softball program as the head coach.
 
Riley had previously served as a longtime assistant coach of the women's soccer team, being elevated to interim head coach for the 2022 season. During her time as a coach with the women's soccer program, Riley helped guide the Dragons to three consecutive national tournament appearances, playing a major role in player development and team success.
 
"We are excited to have Shannon Riley lead our women's soccer program," said Smelkinson in announcing the hire. "Her passion for student-athlete success, familiarity with the program, and leadership within our department make her a tremendous fit for this position."
 
A former two-sport NCAA Division I athlete at Mount St. Mary's University, Riley competed in both soccer and softball while earning her undergraduate degree in Business Sports Management before completing her MBA in Business Sports Administration. She was a four-year standout on the soccer team and also played two seasons of softball during her collegiate career.
 
Beyond her collegiate and coaching experience, Riley has built an extensive background in athletic performance and rehabilitation. She is a Licensed Massage Therapist, NeuroKinetic Therapist, C.H.E.K. Level II Practitioner, and NSPA-certified personal trainer. She also owns the company Cre8 Change and has worked as a rehabilitation specialist with 5 Star Athletics.

Riley also previously spent three seasons as Director of Operations for the University of Maryland Softball program and was named the first head coach in Howard Community College softball history in 2021, helping build the program from the ground up while leading the Dragons to multiple Region 20 tournament appearances.
 
"I'm honored to lead the Howard Community College women's soccer program," Riley said. "This department and this college have meant so much to me throughout my career. I'm excited to continue building a culture centered around hard work, accountability, and student-athlete success both on and off the field."
 
Riley now takes over a Dragons women's soccer program with strong local recruiting ties and a recent history of national tournament success as Howard prepares for the upcoming NJCAA season.