Mahwah, NJ: Ramapo College Director of Athletics, Jan Koslowsky, has announced that Nicole Barbella, who has been serving as the interim head women's lacrosse coach, has been appointed the team's full-time head coach. 

"Nicole has been a great addition to the department in her role as the athletics operations assistant and transportation coordinator. She previously served part time in the role of head women's lacrosse coach, as well as in an interim role this past season. Her dedication to our student athletes and attention to detail showed that she was the best choice to lead the program moving forward," said Koslowsky.

Barbella returns to head the women's lacrosse team after previously coaching the Roadrunners during the 2022 and 2023 seasons along with an interim role in 2025. Last season Barbella guided the program to the most wins in the last five seasons while she's had three athletes earn NJAC All-Conference honors (2023: Colleen Mason & Kelly Griffin, 2025: Erin Smeilus).

"I'm thankful and thrilled to step back into the role of head coach for the Ramapo College lacrosse program. I look forward to building on the leadership of our returners, the talent throughout the roster, and the shared drive of this team to grow, improve, and compete. Competing in the NJAC, one of the toughest conferences in the division, presents both a challenge and an exciting opportunity," said Barbella.

Coach Barbella earned her first collegiate coaching victory during the 2022 season with a 19-3 win over Centenary while she also collected her first NJAC regular season win over Rutgers-Camden 13-12 in OT. 

"She is a positive role model, team player, and always looks to enhance a positive culture not only within her student-athletes but the department as well, I am confident that she will lead the program to future success and look forward to watching her grow in this role," added Koslowsky.