Conway, the current head coach of USA men's national team, will work with head coach Lee Bodimeade and admitted that he was delighted to take up the role following a global search that began over the summer and saw numerous highly qualified candidates submitting applications for the position.

"I am really excited to be afforded the opportunity to be involved with the women's national team," said Conway.

"To take the position is bittersweet, as I will relinquish my responsibilities with the men's programme but it is a fantastic opportunity and I can't wait to get started.

"With already being qualified for the Olympic Games, we plan to focus all of our efforts and goals toward Olympic success."

The total pool of candidates for the job was narrowed down to a group of eight, which was then thinned to three through a six-member selection committee.

Through the process, Conway emerged as the top candidate with outstanding knowledge of the international game and technological skills.

"Nick's experience as the men's head coach brings a maturity and knowledge of the sport that is really required," said Bodimeade.

"In working with Nick in the past, I have a real appreciation of his knowledge of the game and know that Nick will surely bring that knowledge to the team in the key areas in which we are trying to improve."

Conway re-joins the women's national team after serving as an assistant coach from 2003-2004 and acting head coach from 2004-2005.

In 2005, he was offered a challenging opportunity to revitalise men's hockey in the United States and elevate the men's national team to a higher international standard.

Prior to joining USA Field Hockey, Conway was a part of the University of North Carolina's coaching staff for eight seasons.

"Nick Conway has developed into a very astute coach who has both tactical and technical expertise at the very highest levels, combined with an in depth knowledge of the USA Field Hockey system," said Terry Walsh, USA Field Hockey's technical director of high performance.

"His ability to sight and activate details requiring enhancement or attention will be of significant assistance in his supporting role to head coach Lee Bodimeade.

"Nick is well versed in tactical awareness and his ability to distil this information quickly, succinctly and effectively will enhance the programme."

Conway's new role with the women's team will be effective as of January 1, 2012, while his replacement as the men's national team head coach is in the process of being finalised and will be announced in the near future.

"The men's programme is in a good position and I am confident the team will push forward for a successful Olympic qualifier campaign," said Conway.

"I am committed to working with the new coach through the transitional period to ensure the transition is as seamless as possible."

Contact the writer of this story at [email protected]