UT Tyler men's soccer has strengthened its coaching staff for the 2026 season by adding Robert Serra as Assistant Coach and Mika Zarkesh as Graduate Assistant. Serra comes with a wealth of experience, previously serving at Slippery Rock University and St. Mary's, where he achieved a 20-9-10 record. Zarkesh, a former player for the Patriots, will bring firsthand experience and dedication to the program as he pursues his master's degree. Coach Kenny Jones is optimistic about their contributions to building a competitive team culture.

By the Numbers
  • 20-9-10 record achieved by Serra as an assistant at St. Mary's.
  • Back-to-back NJCAA National Titles secured by Zarkesh with Richland College.
Yes, But

While both coaches bring strong credentials, the real test will be their effectiveness in adapting to the challenges of the upcoming season and the competitive nature of the conference.

State of Play
  • UT Tyler aims to build on one of its best Division II seasons, looking for continued improvement.
  • The upcoming season kicks off against DBU on August 27 in Dallas, Texas.
What's Next

As the 2026 season approaches, the coaching staff will focus on integrating Serra and Zarkesh into the program, enhancing player development, and refining recruitment strategies to bolster the team’s competitive edge.

Bottom Line

The addition of Serra and Zarkesh enhances UT Tyler men's soccer’s potential to build a championship culture as they prepare for a challenging season ahead.