Missy Doherty was hired as the new head coach of the Penn State women’s lacrosse team, the Penn State athletic department announced in a press release Friday.

I’m extremely excited to be the next head women’s lacrosse coach at Penn State University,” Doherty said in the press release. “I want to thank Tim Curley and Sue Scheetz for the opportunity they have provided, and I’m looking forward to being a part of a program that is so rich in lacrosse tradition.”

After spending seven years as the head coach at Towson, Doherty will be the ninth Nittany Lions women’s lacrosse coach in program history. She has won a combined five national championships as a player and coach.

With the Tigers, Doherty compiled a record of 79-46, including three Colonial Athletic Association championships. Towson’s 13-4 record in 2010 earned them an at-large bid to the NCAA Tournament, where they lost 14-12 to Virginia.

“Missy is a rising star in collegiate women’s lacrosse and Penn State is fortunate to be able to bring her to Happy Valley to lead our program,” Director of Athletics Tim Curley said in the press release. “Missy has experienced success and is a proven winner as a player, assistant coach, and head coach. Her leadership and vision will positively impact our players. I am pleased and proud to welcome Missy to the Penn State family.”