FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Avila University Director of Athletics Mike Sharpe has announced the hiring of Chris Clements as the New Head Men's & Women's Soccer Coach.

Coach Clements takes over the position from Paul McNally who served as the women's coach for 6 seasons and as the men's coach for 4 seasons. Clements comes to Avila after serving as the Assistant Women's Coach at the University of Central Missouri for three seasons (2005-2007). While assisting the program at UCM the Jennies compiled an overall record of 36-17-8, including an MIAA co-championship in 2007. During Clements time as the lead recruiter the Jennies placed 26 players on the MIAA All-Academic team as well as 7 players named to first team all conference, 14 honorable mention all conference, and 1 NCAA D2 All-American.

In addition to his experience at the University of Central Missouri he has served as the assistant and as the head coach for the girls Missouri Olympic Development Program from 2006-2008, and currently is the Head Boys coach of the U18 United Soccer Club of Central Missouri.

“We are very excited to have someone with the background and experience Chris brings to the program, department and university in helping us continue our upward assent within the Heart of America Athletic Conference”, said Sharpe. “His familiarity with the challenges of college recruiting, his connections within the high school ranks in the area and his active involvement with area club soccer should help in our continued progress of the program.”

This past season Avila women's soccer finished with an overall record of 10-8 (4-5) while the men's program finished with a record of 5-13 (1-8).

For more information on this release or other information pertaining to Avila University Athletics, phone 816-501-3634.

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