University of Central Arkansas men’s soccer coach Chad Flanders resigned Monday.
Flanders was UCA’s head men’s soccer coach for nine seasons, compiling a 63-78-15 overall record. Flanders, who took over the UCA program in 2003, led the Bears to two straight NCAA Division II tournaments, including a quarterfinal appearance in 2004. He was Gulf South Conference Coach of the Year in 2004 and 2005.
“I have decided to step down from my post for personal reasons,” Flanders said. “I have completely enjoyed my time at UCA and will miss all my players, friends and colleagues. What a wonderful place to work and live. However, at this time I need to be with my children which are the most important thing to me.
“I want to personally thank Brad Teague (athletic director) for his guidance and support during our time together.”
Flanders, a Colorado Springs, Colo., native, was a three-year letterman at Illinois State and received his bachelor’s degree from the school in 1994. He received his master’s degree from Eastern Illinois in 1996. Flanders coached previously at Bradley University and the University of Akron.
“We will miss Coach Flanders and his passion for soccer,” said Teague. “Chad’s many years of service to UCA have made our institution and program better.”
Teague also thanked Flanders for his work in securing a new conference (Missouri Valley Conference) for the Bears, after they played four years as an Division I independent.
“Chad was instrumental in working with the Missouri Valley Conference to gain membership for UCA’s men’s soccer program,” Teague said. “The MVC is one of the top men’s soccer conferences in the nation and one in which coach Flanders had worked previously at another member institution. His contacts and persistence helped us with our pursuit of the membership invitation.”
The Bears finished 2-11-4 overall last fall and 1-3-2 in Missouri Valley Conference play.
UCA assistant coach Ross Duncan will take over the program on an interim basis, according to Teague. Duncan, who played collegiately at Oregon State and professionally in Australia, has been an assistant at UCA since February 2010.