Niles girls soccer will have a new coach this spring.

Following the resignation of Jo Schau earlier this year, Niles Athletic Director Jeff Upton announced Tuesday that Katie Czirr would replace Schau.

Czirr was a three-sport athlete at Kalamazoo Central. She lettered in soccer, swimming and volleyball for the Maroon Giants before continuing her athletic career as a swimmer at Grand Valley State University.

“I am familiar with the Niles soccer program and want to inspire and motivate the Niles girls to reach higher goals that include winning a conference title,” Czirr said. “This will begin with a strong offseason conditioning program and commitment from our Viking athletes.”

“Katie Czirr is has passion and determination that will help her as head coach of out team,” Niles Athletic Director Jeff Upton said. “It doesn’t take long to figure out that coach Czirr will work hard to get her team in a position to win games. Niles soccer will need to work hard to compete against our tough schedule.”

Czirr, who is a teacher at both Ring Lardner and Niles High School, has already met with potential players Tuesday and was happy with the turnout.

“I’m excited for the opportunity to take over and rejuvenate our Lady Viking program,” she said. “I hope all the players come back from the holiday weekend and are ready to begin to work on achieving higher goals.”