Radford University Athletics

Former Radford standout Tiffany (Church) Saunders returns to the sidelines for her fifth season as the program’s assistant coach.

Following four seasons in the red and white, Saunders (’07) will be involved in all phases of the program and will work primarily with goalkeepers and forwards. Known for her creativity as a stopper on penalty corners during her playing days, Saunders will also play a part in working with the offensive corner unit.

As a four-year starter (2003-06), Saunders was a versatile and creative player under Woods. She played key roles in Radford’s runner-up finish in the 2003 NorPac Tournament and its 2004 East Division championship, which included a perfect 6-0 regular season.

“Tiffany is a great addition to the Highlander field hockey program,” said Woods. “Her familiarity with our system and what we expect out of our players will make for a smooth transition into the coaching ranks.”

Playing almost every position except goalkeeper, she left Radford ranked second in career assists with 20. She amassed 11 (second most in a RU single season) of those helpers during a breakout junior season when she assumed the full time role of stopper. That 2005 total was the most since 1991 and ranked her second overall in the NorPac.

Saunders concluded her career with seven assists and three goals during her senior campaign, helping the Highlanders to a second-straight third place victory in the NorPac tournament while earning all-tournament honors in 2006.

Saunders and her husband Terence reside in Christiansburg with their daughter Taliana and son Tavaris.