Anzalone Takes the Helm of Blackburn Women’s Soccer Program

Blackburn College Director of Athletics & Recreation Kim Camara-Harvey has announced the hiring of Chris Anzalone as the new Head Women's Soccer Coach. Anzalone brings collegiate coaching experience, a strong recruiting background, and a proven commitment to student-athlete development to Blackburn.

Anzalone joins Blackburn after serving as the assistant women's soccer coach at the University of Health Sciences and Pharmacy (UHSP), where he played a key role in the program's growth and competitive success. Since August 2023, he helped develop seven all-conference players and assisted in leading the program to record-breaking seasons in wins and goals scored. His responsibilities also included practice planning, budget oversight, recruiting travel, and hosting on-campus visits.

In addition to his coaching role, Anzalone has served as a strength and conditioning coach at UHSP. He designed individualized, performance-driven workouts and conducted assessments to track athlete progress throughout the season.

Prior to UHSP, Anzalone coached as an assistant men's soccer coach at Southwestern Illinois College, where he collaborated on strategy, practice planning, recruiting, and student-athlete mentorship. He also has extensive experience as a sports performance coach with Elite FT, developing and leading camps focused on speed, agility, coordination, and power for athletes ranging from elementary age through the collegiate level.

"Chris brings an outstanding blend of recruiting experience, player development, and a clear passion for the holistic growth of student-athletes," said Blackburn College Director of Athletics Kim Camara-Harvey. "His background as a collegiate athlete, combined with his collegiate coaching experience, aligns perfectly with our vision for the women's soccer program. We are excited for the leadership and energy he will bring to Blackburn."

Anzalone is a former Division I student-athlete, competing at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, where he earned First Team All-Conference (OVC) honors in 2011 and was the program's leading goal scorer from 2008–2011. He also competed at the Division II level at Drury University. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from SIUE and is currently pursuing his Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) certification.

"I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to lead the women's soccer program at Blackburn College," said Anzalone. "Blackburn's commitment to student-athlete success, both on the field and in the classroom, really stood out to me. I'm excited to build strong relationships with our student-athletes and to continue growing the program in a way that reflects the values of the College and the athletic department."

Anzalone will begin his duties immediately and will focus on recruiting, player development, and preparing the Beavers for the upcoming season.