Taylor Houck Named Caltech’s First Women’s Soccer Coach

The Caltech Department of Athletics, Physical Education and Recreation has named Taylor Houck as the inaugural Head Coach for the new women’s soccer program.

“We are thrilled to welcome Taylor to our team,” Betsy Mitchell, Director of APER, said. “Her enthusiasm, knowledge and drive are the perfect qualities for the first coach in this program’s history. We have high aspirations for what she and our future women’s soccer players can achieve.”

Houck joins Caltech with two seasons of Division III coaching experience along with professional playing experience overseas. She spent two years as an assistant coach at Oberlin College in Oberlin, Ohio following four years of playing experience at Division I Villanova University and a stint in the highest-level league in Finland. With Houck’s assistance, Oberlin posted its first winning record in 25 years and earned its first-ever NSCAA regional ranking while being recognized with the NSCAA Academic and Silver Ethics Awards. She was also responsible for managing the social media channels of the Heisman Club, an organization composed of Oberlin letter-winners interested in the well-being of Oberlin Athletics.

“It is an honor to be selected to build the Women’s Soccer Program, and I look forward to the challenge it presents,” Houck said. “I want to thank Betsy Mitchell and the rest of the hiring committee for entrusting me with this opportunity to join the Caltech family. I am eager to dive in head-first with an inexhaustible work ethic and passion. Go Beavers!”

A two-time Team MVP and All-BIG EAST selection at Villanova, Houck earned her bachelor’s degree in sociology and has completed her USSF ‘E” National License along with NSCAA Goalkeeper Levels 1, 2 and 3 Diplomas. She has also coached at various youth clubs, including the Excalibur Soccer Club in North Olmstead, Ohio; Pallokissat Youth Team in Finland; and FC Bucks in Hollands, Pa.