Name: John Benitez     

School: Post University

Position: Women's Soccer Coach

Did you play a sport in college? Did you win any awards for your performance?

I played soccer at Western Connecticut State University from 1991-1995. I was an All-New England selection in 1992 and 1995 and am the all-time leading score at WCSU. I was also a two- time captain in 1994 and 1995.

Why did you choose to work at Post?

I wanted a new challenge and Post seemed like a good fit.  The women's soccer program is on the rise and I believe that I can help it get to the next level.

What other jobs have you held before this current position?

I was the head assistant women's soccer coach at Western Connecticut State University from 1996-2006. I was also a General Manager at the CT Sports Complex in New Milford, CT, from 2001-2006.

What is your favorite aspect of life at Post?

I would have to say the feel of a small, tight-knit community, almost family like.  Everyone here pulls for each other. 

Hobbies:    Golf, traveling, movies, music, sports

Favorite Food:  Sushi

Favorite Movie:    Shawshank Redemption

Favorite Book:   Angels & Demons, by Dan Brown

Favorite Sports Team:   New York Rangers, Hockey

Favorite Athlete:   Lionel Messi. He plays soccer for Barcelona Fc (Spain) and for the Argentina National team

Person You'd Most Like to Meet and Why:  Mike Krzyzewski, Duke University Men's Basketball Coach.  I think that he has a lot of insight into the world of coaching, and he is probably one of the people you can learn a lot from in regards to the "coaching world". 

Who is your Role Model?  My parents!  If it wasn't for their hard work, support and love, my three brothers and I would not be who we are today, or have been able to accomplish all that we have.

Most Exciting Sports Memory:

I would have to say that it was winning the New England Regional Championship against Babson College when I played for Western Connecticut State as a sophomore in 1992.  Although we were the underdogs, our team always believed that we could compete against anybody.  We took them into penalty kicks and won in "sudden death," 6-5.  It was the first time our school had made it past the Regional Championship.  We made it as far as the "Elite 8".  To this date, no other team has come that close.