Stephen F. Austin State women’s soccer program announces leadership change

(Pictured Above: Tony Minatta has been removed as Stephen F. Austin State head coach.)

NACOGDOCHES, Texas – Stephen F. Austin State University (SFA) Athletics announced a change in leadership for the women’s soccer program. Chance Chapman will serve as interim head coach, replacing Tony Minatta. Sr. Associate Athletics Director and former head women’s soccer coach Wally Crittenden will serve as Senior Advisor for the women’s soccer team. The announcement was made by Director of Athletics, Ryan Ivey, who will immediately begin a national search for a new head coach for SFA.

“We very much appreciate the effort and energy that Tony Minatta put into the SFA soccer program,” said Ivey. “Tony was able to accomplish many positive things for our soccer program, including two championships in 2020 and 2021 seasons. Unfortunately, we have not made the continued progress needed and I believe we need a change in coaching leadership for the long-term sustainability of the program.

“We wish Tony the best in his future endeavors and thank him for his service to SFA women’s soccer. We will immediately begin a national search for the best possible candidate to assume this leadership role.  Our women’s soccer program has had much success in its short time, and we are committed to ensuring our continued success in future seasons.”

Minatta was named head coach in 2019 and was in his fourth season as head coach for the Lumberjacks. He had a 27-33-6 overall record at SFA, won the Southland conference in 2020, and won the WAC Southwest Division with an 8-2 record in 2021.