University of Mount Saint Vincent Athletics

Jonathan Raj is embarking on a new chapter in his coaching career as the head coach at the College of Mount Saint Vincent. With a rich background in soccer, Jonathan's journey has been marked by significant achievements and contributions to the sport.
 
In his first season as head coach at the College of Mount Saint Vincent, Jonathan Raj has wasted no time making a significant impact on the soccer program. The inaugural season under his leadership saw a successful recruitment effort, bringing in talent from diverse backgrounds. This culminated in a remarkable 6-2-3 conference record and an impressive 8-game unbeaten streak leading into the postseason.
 
Providing further context to the season's success, senior captain Ian Lamas, an alum of NYCFC, finished the season ranked #3 in the entire nation for shots on goal per game. Adding to the defensive prowess, senior goalkeeper Joel Luna secured the #8 spot nationally for goals against average, contributing to the program's overall #10 position nationally for goals against average.
 
Highlighting the individual achievements of the players, three outstanding contributors were named to the Skyline Conference First Team: Justin Betancourt, Ian Lamas, and Donavan Speer.
 
Under Jonathan Raj's guidance, the program has not only demonstrated excellence on the field but has also fostered a culture of success and achievement. The inaugural season stands as a testament to the coach's ability to attract and develop top-tier talent, setting a promising trajectory for the future of Mount Saint Vincent's soccer program.
 
Johnny started his coaching career as an Assistant Coach at the University of Bridgeport under coaches Brian Quinn and Peter Doneit.
 
He continued his coaching career at Fairfield University, Jonathan spent seven seasons with the men's soccer program, initially as an assistant coach. His impactful tenure included guiding the team to the 2017 MAAC Regular Season title and the 2017 MAAC Championship, earning a spot in the NCAA Tournament. Notably, he played a key role in achieving a 12-5-3 record and coaching Angus Hastings to an Academic All-American selection. Jonathan also received recognition, clinching the MAAC Men’s Soccer Coaching Staff of the Year award.
 
In 2018, the team continued its success under Jonathan's guidance, securing back-to-back MAAC Regular Season titles and defeating the nationally ranked #9 University of North Carolina Wilmington. The Stags finished the season with an impressive 11-5-2 overall record, and Jonathan's coaching prowess contributed to Jonas Vergin being named MAAC Defensive Player of the Year and Gordon Botterill earning MAAC Goalkeeper of the Year. The coaching staff once again received the MAAC Men’s Soccer Coaching Staff of the Year award.
 
Despite a shortened season in 2019-2020, Jonathan led the Stags to the MAAC semifinals, with Gordon Botterill earning MAAC Goalkeeper of the Year and Thomas Drillien securing MAAC Rookie of the Year.
 
In 2021, Jonathan faced new challenges as the team missed out on a chance to play in the MAAC Championship Final, falling short in the semifinal. However, his guidance led Cormac Pike to All-MAAC first team honors.
 
Before his coaching career, Jonathan Raj was a standout four-year varsity soccer player at Fairfield University, earning multiple First Team All-Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC) honors as a defender. His impressive college career included being a First Team New England All-Region selection and making the Herman Trophy Watchlist.
 
Jonathan's playing experience extended beyond the collegiate level, with stints in the PDL with the Chicago Fire and playing for New Zealand’s Auckland City FC, winners of the Oceania Federation and participants in the FIFA Club World Cup.
 
He holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing and a Master in Public Administration from Fairfield, as well as a Master of Business Administration from the University of Bridgeport. Prior to his time at Fairfield, Jonathan represented the New Zealand U20 national team and played a pivotal role in Auckland City FC's success. Now, as the head coach at the College of Mount Saint Vincent, Jonathan Raj is poised to continue making a positive impact on the soccer world.
 
Jonathan resides in Fairfield, Connecticut with his wife Kathleen and two dogs, Kota and Pearl.