SUNY - Canton Women's Volleyball

Cooper Colesante was named head coach of the SUNY Canton women’s volleyball program in July 2024 and enters his third season at the helm during the 2026-27 academic year. He led the Roos to double digit (10) wins in his first season with wins over programs like Elmira, Alfred State, St. Lawrence, Potsdam, VTSU Johnson, Hilbert, Plattsburgh, Goucher and Paul Smith's. The team won its first ever SUNYAC match with a sweep against Plattsburgh on October 18, 2024.    Colesante spent the 2023 season as the head men's volleyball and assistant women's volleyball coach at Wells College. The men’s program nearly doubled their win total from the previous season in his first season at the helm, while the women’s team qualified for the postseason and hosted a home playoff match for the first time in five years.   Prior to his stint with the Express he also served as a women’s volleyball intern at both SUNY Potsdam and Wells.   “Cooper’s experience playing competitive collegiate volleyball at Wells where the team made an NCAA Tournament appearance will help him and our team as we look to compete in the SUNYAC this fall,” Athletic Director Randy Sieminski said at the time of his hiring. “His role as a head coach of the men’s team at Wells, while also serving as the assistant women’s coach last season gives him great experience as he takes the reigns of our women’s program here at SUNY Canton.”   Colesante used his final year of eligibility playing as a graduate student for the Potsdam men’s volleyball team. Prior to that he was a four-year setter at Wells. During his time with the Express he finished fifth all-time in program history in total assists and assists per set. Colesante was a member of the 2019 team that won the NEAC championship and made it to the Elite Eight of the NCAA Tournament.   “I would like to thank Randy Sieminski and the rest of search committee for trusting me to be the next head women’s volleyball coach at SUNY Canton,” Colesante said at the time of his hiring. “Having spent a season playing volleyball at Potsdam I am familiar with the North Country. I am looking forward to getting started right away building on the foundation set by our returners, while working with the incoming recruits as we look to make a successful transition to SUNYAC volleyball.”   Colesante is a native of Central Square, New York and Paul V. Moore High School where he was a two-time All-CNY men's volleyball player. He graduated from Wells College with a Bachelor’s degree in Business and a minor in Education.   (Updated 8/28/26)  

Kiley Zicari joined the Roos coaching staff for her first season with the team prior to the start of the 2026 season. Zicari was a four-year player for the Roos appearing in 231 sets across 81 matches during her time on the court at SUNY Canton.   "Kiley has been outstanding." Colesante said prior to the 2026 season. "Her drive, dedication, and personality are just a few of the qualities that have really impressed me, especially being just one year removed from being on the roster. She has brought a high level of professionalism to everything she does. Her presence, leadership, and commitment have made a real impact, and we're incredibly fortunate to have her around our program."   Zicari, a libero and defensive specialist, recorded over 300 digs to go with 39 assists and 28 aces during her career. The Lowville, NY native was also a member of the SUNY Canton softball team during her freshman season.   "I am extremely excited to enter into this new role with the team," Zicari said. "I am looking forward to bringing experience, leadership, and a positive attitude to a young and growing team. I am extremely grateful for this opportunity. Go Roos!"   Zicari graduated from SUNY Canton in May 2026 with a Bachelor's degree in Veterinary Technology. She was a three-sport athlete at Lowville High School competing in volleyball, softball and swimming and diving. She earned numerous Scholar Athlete honors during her time with the Red Raiders. (Updated 8/28/26)