Mercersburg Academy is pleased to announce the appointment of Jomara Coghlan as the school’s next head field hockey coach. A respected collegiate coach and educator with nearly 20 years of experience, Coghlan brings a distinguished record of competitive success, leadership development, and student-centered coaching to the Storm program.

Coghlan joins Mercersburg after serving as head field hockey coach at The College of Wooster, where she led a remarkable turnaround of the program. In just two seasons, she improved the team’s winning percentage from 37 percent to 69 percent, guided the program to its first winning season in five years, and established one of the nation’s top defensive units.

Prior to her time at Wooster, Coghlan spent 15 years as head field hockey coach at Washington and Jefferson College, where she compiled a 168-89 record and led the Presidents to three conference championships and three NCAA tournament appearances. A four-time conference Coach of the Year, she coached numerous All-Conference, All-Region, and All-American student-athletes while building a culture grounded in leadership, accountability, and personal growth.

In addition to her coaching accomplishments, Coghlan has served as a professor of physical education and wellness, teaching courses in nutrition, strength training, stress management, coaching, and personal wellness. Her broad educational experience reflects a holistic approach to student development that extends well beyond the playing field.

“We are thrilled to welcome Jo to Mercersburg Academy,” said Lauren Jacobs, director of athletics. “Throughout the search process, it was clear that she is an educator at heart whose values align deeply with our mission. Jomara understands that athletics are about much more than competition—they are an opportunity to develop character, resilience, confidence, and leadership. Her passion for mentoring young people and helping them realize their potential makes her an outstanding addition to our community.”

Coghlan’s coaching philosophy centers on “class, character, and success,” emphasizing the development of habits and skills that prepare student-athletes for success in college and beyond.

Coghlan holds a master’s degree in exercise science and health promotion from California University of Pennsylvania and a bachelor’s degree in sport sciences from Ohio University. She is a graduate of the NCAA Women’s Coaches Academy and holds a USA Field Hockey Level 2 Coaching Accreditation.

She will begin her role this summer and will lead the Storm field hockey program into the 2026-2027 season.