University of Northern Iowa interim director of athletics Mark Farley announced the promotion of Jennifer Plante to head women's soccer coach for the Panthers. Plante will replace Kathy Kakoyianni-Bering, who has tendered her resignation as head coach.

"On behalf of the Panther family we would like to thank Kathy for her efforts in developing a soccer program here at UNI," Farley said. "We look forward to supporting Jennifer as she continues to build our program."

Plante (pronounced PLAHN-tay) served as an assistant coach for the Panthers in 2007. UNI posted six victories this past fall, and reached the State Farm Missouri Valley Conference Tournament for the first time since 2004.

"I would like to thank the athletic department for this opportunity," Plante said. "I would also like to extend my thanks to Kathy and wish her the best of luck in her future endeavors. She has started a great foundation and the players and I will build upon that success. I'm determined to bring in a staff and recruits that will embrace UNI's athletic traditions. The Cedar Valley is a big part of UNI athletics and I will work to engage the community via camps and clinics."

Plante came to the Panther program in 2007 after serving as director of coaching for the Pacesetter Soccer Club in Ohio, a position she had held since 2005.

An outstanding collegiate player, Plante was part of Ohio State's women's team from 1995 to 2000 under coach Lori Walker. As a defender, she earned first team all-Big Ten Conference honors in 1995, the same season she was named Big Ten Freshman of the Year. She also participated in the U.S. Olympic Soccer Festival and was a member of the Columbus Ziggs, a semi-professional team.

Plante spent a year as an assistant coach at Kenyon College in Gambier, Ohio, from 2003 to 2004. After leaving Kenyon, Plante joined the University of Iowa women's soccer staff. She spent a year as an assistant coach with the Hawkeyes, specializing in recruiting, team training and team travel among other duties. Plante is a Region II ODP girls coach. She holds a USSF `D' license, NSCAA Advanced National Diploma and is a NSCAA staff invitee.

Kakoyianni-Bering served as the Panthers' head coach for the past three seasons and had been with the program since UNI soccer's inaugural season in 2000.

"The decision to step down and take care of myself and family was supported by the UNI family," Kakoyianni-Bering said. "I have made some great friends and memories and can't wait to see the success from this past year surpassed under Jen's direction. I will always be a part of UNI athletics and know we will continue to accomplish great things."