TIM WEIGHT/For the Express Central Mountain head coach Ryan Veltri prepares to speak to his players before an overtime period during a girls soccer game against Penns Valley on Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025, at Malinak Stadium. Veltri stepped down as head coach following Thursday's game against Penns Valley on Saturday, Aug. 30, 2025, at Malinak Stadium. Veltri stepped down as head coach following Thursday's game against Montoursville.

Following Thursday’s girls soccer game against Montoursville, longtime Central Mountain head coach Ryan Veltri informed his players that he would be stepping down from his position. Prior to the decision, Veltri served two stints totaling 15 seasons as head coach of the program, coaching the team from 2005-2014 and 2021-2025.

Throughout his run, Veltri propelled the Wildcats to new heights, most notably leading them to a PIAA Class AAA semifinal appearance in 2006. Since his return in 2021, they’ve struggled to get back to those heights, but Veltri remained positive and optimistic throughout the second stint and expects big things from the team in the future.

When asked about the decision, he discussed what it’s meant to be a part of the program.

“I have loved Central Mountain girls soccer from the very first day I took over the program in 2005,” expressed Veltri. “Over the years, this team, its coaches and our incredible student-athletes have given me some of the best moments and greatest memories of my career. My goal was always simple: to create a meaningful learning experience while building lasting traditions and a strong team culture.”

“Along the way, we’ve been fortunate to coach exceptional players — young women who left their mark in our record books and, in some cases, went on to play at the professional level. The 2006 “dream season” will forever be one of the highlights of my coaching journey. But truthfully, what has made this program special are the athletes who have worn this jersey year after year.

“Every season has had its own story, its own heartbeat and its own group of young women who made it unforgettable. I am very proud of those Lady Wildcat soccer players on the Hall of Fame wall, knowing the program is highly represented but still missing a few faces. In the end, whenever speak of wins, losses or records, it has always been about the team.”

“As I look at the team today, I see a bright future — a roster full of youth, energy, and growing experience. I’m confident the program is headed in the right direction, and it’s an incredible feeling to know I’ve been able to play even a small part in its journey. Central Mountain girls soccer is more than just a program; it’s a family, a legacy and a source of pride. And for me, it has been a privilege to be part of it.”

“I look forward to watching my own girls now as they take their steps into the next phase of life. Kendall will play soccer at Juniata College and Remington will become the team manager at Juniata College. I look forward to making car rides to every game and tailgating before and after games. It is essential that I use the time moving forward to focus on my own children and family just as much as it is for new leadership in the Lady Wildcat Soccer program.”