PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. – The Plattsburgh State Department of Intercollegiate Athletics and Recreation has announced the hiring of former Cardinal standout Mattie Norton as the assistant coach of the Plattsburgh State women's ice hockey program. 

Norton returns to her alma mater after serving as the inaugural head coach of the Lewis and Clark Community College ACHA women's ice hockey program, where she helped establish the program and build its foundation ahead of its first season. 

In addition to her collegiate coaching experience, Norton has spent several years coaching with Elite Hockey, working with players ranging from ages 3-18, while also serving as both an on-ice coach and teacher's assistant at Elite Hockey School.

"It is great to welcome Mattie back to Plattsburgh," said Plattsburgh State women's ice hockey head coach Kevin Houle. "Mattie had an outstanding career as a player and demonstrated exceptional leadership as our team captain. Those qualities, along with her passion for the game and commitment to our program, will serve her well in her new role as assistant women's hockey coach. We are excited to have her back and look forward to the positive impact she will have on our student-athletes and the continued success of our program." 

One of the most accomplished players in recent program history, Norton concluded an outstanding four-year career with the Cardinals in 2025. She served as team captain during her senior season after being an assistant captain as a junior and helped lead Plattsburgh to multiple conference championships and NCAA Tournament appearances.

A two-time All-SUNYAC First Team selection (2023-24, 2024-25), Norton earned numerous honors throughout her collegiate career, including CCM Hockey/AHCA Division III Women's Ice Hockey Second Team All-America recognition, DIIIHockeyNews.com First Team East All-America honors, SUNYAC Women's Ice Hockey Scholar-Athlete of the Year, SUNY Women's Ice Hockey Scholar-Athlete of the Year, and Plattsburgh State Female Athlete of the Year during her senior campaign. She was also named to the NEWHL All-Rookie Team in 2021-22 and earned All-NEWHL Second Team honors in 2022-23.

As a student-athlete, Norton was actively involved across campus, serving on the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) throughout her four years and participating in the Cardinal Academy leadership program. She graduated from Plattsburgh State with her bachelor's degrees in accounting and business administration, along with a minor in management information systems.

Norton will begin her duties immediately as she joins the Cardinals' coaching staff for the upcoming 2026-27 season.