Named Director of Marlins Men's and Women's Soccer

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. ---  "The 2012 Virginia Wesleyan College men's and women's soccer teams will have more in common than ever before as this year they will both be led by one of the most experienced and successful head coaches in Division III soccer, Jeff Bowers," announced Virginia Wesleyan College's Director of Athletics Joanne Renn. 

"There are times when you just have to step back and reflect on the immediate need and our need at this time is consistency and continuity for the program.  Jeff's many strengths such as his professional approach to coaching and his ability to relate well with many constituencies make him the go-to professional in this situation," said Renn.

Renn further explained that an extensive national search failed to find an individual who could lead the men's team in regaining national prominence.  Bowers' promotion to the director of men's and women's soccer at Virginia Wesleyan will be effective immediately. There are plans to reopen the position for head coach of men's soccer at the conclusion of post season play in November.

The Marlin men open the season with two major challenges, facing Pennsylvania's York College on Friday, Aug. 31, in the Joe Pombriant/Christopher Newport University Classic in Newport News.  On Saturday, Sept. 1, the Marlins open the home season facing defending NCAA Division III national champion Ohio Wesleyan University at 7 p.m. on Foster Field at the Trinder Center.

VWC's women open with two home matches, beginning Saturday, Sept. 1, at 1 p.m. against Rutgers University-Newark.  On Sunday, Sept. 2, the Marlins host Pennsylvania's Eastern University at 2 p.m.  Both games are part of VWC's Orthopaedic Associates of Virginia Classic.

--- This release is courtesy of the Virginia Wesleyan Sports Information department. ---
www.vwcathletics.com