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From All-American to Assistant Coach: Krista Dietz Stays in the Game at Pace University

May 2, 2025 | 2024-2025, Division II, News

Manahawkin, NJ -​ Pace University Field Hockey is welcoming a familiar face to its coaching staff. Beginning in July 2025, Krista Dietz—arguably the most decorated player in program history—will join the Setters as an assistant coach, marking a seamless transition from standout student-athlete to mentor.

Head Coach Kayte Biordi expressed her enthusiasm for the move. “We are thrilled to have Krista transition from student-athlete to assistant coach. As the most decorated player in our program’s history, she’s not done contributing to our team’s success,” said Biordi. “Krista brings a wealth of knowledge and fresh perspectives that will greatly benefit our student-athletes.”

For Dietz, the decision to stay was rooted in gratitude and purpose. “A huge thank you to Head Coach Biordi for believing in me and for the opportunity to grow as a coach under her guidance,” Dietz shared. “Her leadership has shaped my journey, and I’m honored to now support the next generation of Setters alongside her.”

A Legacy of Excellence

During her four-year playing career at Pace, Dietz built a legacy that will be hard to match. Her accolades include:

  • NFHCA All-American: First Team (2021, 2023, 2024); Second Team (2022)

  • NE10 First Team All-Conference: 2021–2024

  • NE10 Rookie of the Year (2021)

  • NE10 Player of the Year (2023)

  • NFHCA East Region Player of the Year (2023)

  • NE10 Sport Excellence Award (2023)

  • NE10 All-Championship Team (2022)

  • NCAA Division II Statistical Leader in both 2023 and 2024

She captained the Setters and rewrote the program’s record book with career totals of 203 points, 77 goals, and 49 assists—all program bests.

Academic and Leadership Recognition

Dietz’s accomplishments extended beyond the turf. In 2024, she was named to the NFHCA Division II National Academic Squad, showcasing her ability to lead with integrity in both academics and athletics.

Staying in the Game

As she steps into her new coaching role, Dietz is eager to give back to the game and the university that shaped her.

“It means so much to me to keep giving back to field hockey and to remain at Pace because both the sport and this university have truly shaped my life,” she said. “Field hockey has been my outlet, my passion, and my constant through every high and low. Staying was never just about playing—it was about honoring everything I’ve been through, giving back to a program that believed in me, and helping the next generation find their strength, their voice, and their place—just like I did.”

When asked what continues to inspire her, Dietz said, “Being part of the journey, watching someone grow from a hesitant beginner into a fierce competitor or a trusted teammate—that’s powerful. The relationships, the energy, and the chance to shape lives through the game I love? That’s why I stay.”

With her record-setting legacy and new coaching title, Krista Dietz is proving that her impact on Pace University Field Hockey is far from over—it’s just entering a powerful new chapter.

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