Andy Parker announced as full-time assistant coach for UConn men’s soccer

STORRS, Conn. – Andy Parker has been elevated to a full-time men’s soccer assistant coach, as announced by head coach Ray Reid.

“Andy Parker is one of the brightest young coaches in America,” raved Reid. “He will be a great asset to our coaching staff.”

Parker transitions into his full-time role after serving as a volunteer assistant coach during the past four seasons, primarily working with the goalkeepers. Under his tutelage, Parker helped former Husky Scott Levene transform into the American Athletic Conference’s most elite goalkeeper as he led the conference in goals-against average (0.77), save percentage (.792) and shutouts (8).

“Andy possesses all the qualities to be a great coach,” said former UConn soccer standout and Top-10 2017 MLS Draft pick (No. 8, Vancouver) Jake Nerwinski. “He is determined, driven and has an unbelievable passion for the game. I wish him all the best as he takes the next big step in his coaching career.”

Prior to becoming an assistant coach, Parker served a three-year stint as UConn’s Director of Quality Control. During this period with Parker on the bench, the Huskies compiled a 39-13-12 record and advanced to back-to-back NCAA Tournament Quarterfinals in 2012 and 2013. Additionally, UConn tallied their 13th regular season conference title in 2012, and finished its 2014 campaign with wins in six of its final seven matches.

“Coach Parker was a great role model on and off the pitch during my time with him at UConn,” said former Husky Andre Blake, who was drafted first overall by the Union in the 2014 MLS Draft. “I’m very proud of him and I can’t wait to see what the future holds for him. I wish him nothing but success and all the best as he moves forward.

A four-year letter winner for the men’s soccer program at Saint Anselm, Parker earned Northeast-10 All-Rookie Team honors during the 2008 season. He earned a starting assignment in all 72 games he played and left Saint Anselm as the all-time leader in minutes played. A member of the 2011 Northeast-10 All-Academic Team, Parker was a two-time team captain and was selected as a 2011-12 Senior Scholar-Athlete.

Parker graduated from St. Anselm in 2012 with a degree in international business before earning his M.S. in Sport Management in 2015 from the University of Connecticut. He also holds an NSCAA National Diploma and USSF License.