PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. – The Plattsburgh State Department of Intercollegiate Athletics and Recreation has announced the hiring of Jake Pawlika to the Cardinals' soccer coaching staff as an assistant coach ahead of the 2026 season.

Pawlika joins the Plattsburgh State program following a standout four-year playing career at Nazareth University, where he established himself as one of the most productive players in program and Empire 8 Conference history.

"We are excited to add Jake to the staff. He has a great passion for the game and he is hungry to learn as a coach. He was a very good player in his own right and we are looking forward to starting his transition to coaching," said Plattsburgh State head men's soccer coach Chris Taylor.

A four-year starter and team captain at Nazareth, Pawlika finished his career second all-time in program history with 98 points and 39 goals. He was the team's leading goal and point scorer three times during his career, while also leading the team in assists as a sophomore.

In addition to his collegiate playing career, Pawlika has extensive experience in youth soccer. He currently serves as an assistant coach with Coliseum Soccer Club, working with U9 and U10 girls teams, and is a youth coach with the Silver City Sharks, where he oversees weekly supplemental training for a program that has included 83 players.

Pawlika also founded and owns the Silver City Sharks, a United Premier Soccer League (UPSL) club based in Sherrill, N.Y. In that role, he oversees the club's finances, game-day operations and player recruitment.

Pawlika earned a Bachelor of Science degree in finance from Nazareth University, with minors in financial planning and economics.

Pawlika will begin his duties immediately as he joins the Cardinals' coaching staff for the upcoming season.