Melanie Chandler was promoted to associate head coach on April 1, 2026.
Chandler was hired as an assistant coach in April 2023 and has since emerged as a stabilizing force within the program, helping lead recruiting efforts while spearheading community service initiatives that promote the Vaqueros throughout the Rio Grande Valley.
Chandler was instrumental in guiding the team through a period of transition. Prior to the appointment of Head Coach Nataki Stewart, Chandler focused on preserving and strengthening the program’s culture by instilling confidence and belief while nurturing a holistic environment where student-athletes are empowered to become the best versions of themselves.
Chandler was part of the staff that guided Linnea Eld to Western Athletic Conference (WAC) All-Freshman Team honors in 2023. Chandler helped the program transition from the WAC to the Southland Conference (SLC) in 2024 as the program qualified for the SLC Tournament in their first season following a 7-7-5 record, including a 6-2-2 record at home.
Prior to coming to UTRGV, Chandler spent two seasons at Schreiner University where she spent one season as an assistant coach before being named the head coach in 2022.
Chandler started her coaching career at Waldorf University as an assistant where she spent four seasons (2018-21). Chandler also played collegiately at Waldorf where she appeared in 49 matches over three seasons (2013-15).
Chandler earned her bachelor's degree in criminal justice from Colorado Mesa University in 2017 and earned her master's in organizational leadership with a focus in sports management from Waldorf in 2020.
Chandler holds a USSF C License, a USC Level 3 Goalkeeping Diploma and is certified through the National Sports Performance Association (NSPA) as a speed & agility coach.
