Rob Emmett

"Norwich's approach is to prepare through training and teamwork. Being a part of a team is something special and an experience at Norwich is like no other."

Coach Emmett, the 12th head coach in program history, shares his excitement and enthusiasm for joining the Cadets:

“I have strived to become a head coach throughout my career and couldn’t be more excited to start this chapter at a place so rich with tradition and history,” said Emmett. “I am eager to take the reins and continue the storied success of the Norwich men’s soccer program.”

Coach Highlights

Throughout his career, Coach Emmett has delivered game-changing results—helping both teams and individuals to unprecedented heights.

• 12th Head Coach in program history, dedicated to upholding Norwich men’s soccer’s rich tradition.
• Coached a NESCAC Defensive Player of the Year and 11 NESCAC All-Conference Team members.
• Led nationally ranked teams, finishing as high as #5 in the United Soccer Coaches Top 25 poll.
• Earned NESCAC Coaching Staff of the Year honors.

Building Resilient Leaders On and Off the Soccer Field

Emmett wholeheartedly embodies Norwich’s “I Will Try!” motto. His player-centric coaching philosophy aims to guide student-athletes in acquiring valuable life lessons through the sport, arming them with the resilience and grit needed for life’s next challenges. He understands the necessity of pushing student-athletes beyond their comfort zones to truly gain these lessons, a process made possible only through strong relationships with his players.

His unique teaching approach empowers student-athletes to confidently undertake even the most difficult challenges, both on the pitch and in all areas of student life, ensuring they fully maximize the opportunities of their college experience.

Endorsement from Norwich Leadership

"Rob is determined to help lead us to a GNAC championship, and to recruit quality young men to our program. He has the utmost respect for the storied military history of our university, and for what we stand for. Under Rob’s leadership, I am confident Norwich men’s soccer has a bright future," said Director of Athletics Ed Hockenbury.

Q&A with Head Coach Emmett

What do you like about coaching at Norwich?

Norwich is a place that has a strong athletic history mixed with a passionate alumni base who want to help our student-athletes. Norwich allows the student-athlete to learn and foster meaningful relationships with those who know the value of the institution.

What brought you to becoming a coach for your sport?

When my playing career ended, I knew I didn't want to give the game up. Getting into coaching has allowed me to give back to the game that gave me everything in life.

What excites you about this sport?

Soccer is the world's game, and it is constantly evolving.

What do you enjoy about working with student-athletes?

Working with student-athletes allows me to help teach them life lessons through sport and prepare them to go out into the world as a knowledgeable adult.

Why is Norwich a great place for student-athletes?

Norwich is a place that pushes the student-athlete out of their confront zone in meaningful experiences. Our student-athletes face adversity head on and become prepared to compete at the highest level.

What is your approach to coaching?

Coaching is about building relationships as each student-athlete is different in how they respond to being coached.

What is Norwich’s approach to athletics, training, and being on a team?

Norwich's approach is to prepare through training and teamwork. Being a part of a team is something special and an experience at Norwich is like no other.