Utah’s Manning steps down as head coach
SALT LAKE CITY (BVM) – For the first time in 19 years, Utah women’s soccer is in search of a new head coach. Rich Manning stepped down from the position Thursday after heading up the Utes’ program since 2002.
“After 19 years, it’s time for a new adventure,” Manning said in a press release. “It’s been a privilege to be the women’s soccer coach at the University of Utah. I’m proud of the way we played the game and how our teams represented the University.
“I want to give a huge thanks to the great people in the department. I will be forever grateful to our soccer staff: Scott Halasz, Allie Wisner, Devin Zimmerman, Tom Iriye and Cody Lockling have been the best colleagues, and I’m a better person for having worked with them. Big thanks to my family, especially my wife, Sue. Most of all I want to thank all of the wonderful women who have put on the Utah jersey and given their all for the Utes. They are the best of college athletics. I look forward to watching the team shine in the future.”
Manning will pursue other opportunities after compiling a career record of 192-144-53 over 19 seasons in Salt Lake City. His teams have appeared in eight NCAA Tournaments, including each of his first five seasons from 2002-06.
The long-time head coach has helped develop a myriad of productive athletes, including an All-American and 27 NSCAA All-Region players. Manning has coached 54 all-conference selections (24 of them were first team picks), three conference offensive players of the year, two defensive players of the year and three freshmen of the year.
“I want to thank Rich for his contributions to our program over his 19 years as head coach,” Director of Athletics Mark Harlan said in a press release. “I am appreciative of the dedicated service Rich has provided to our program and his commitment to the well-being of our student-athletes in their academic and athletic pursuits, as well as their personal development.”
A national search, led by Deputy Athletics Director Charmelle Green and Associate Athletics Director Liz Prince, will begin immediately for the Utes’ next head coach.
