Villanova women’s soccer head coach Chris McLain steps down

VILLANOVA, Pa. – Villanova University Vice President & Director of Athletics Mark Jackson announced that Head Women’s Soccer Coach Chris McLain has resigned his position.

“After a lot of analysis, examination, and discussion, including conversations with Chris, we mutually agreed that it was time for a change of direction in the leadership of our women’s soccer program,” stated Jackson. “We have tremendous young women in our program, and we will not shy away from the high expectations that we have for all of our athletic programs. We wish Chris and his family nothing but the best moving forward.”

McLain came to Villanova in 2017 after serving on the staff at The Ohio State University. The Wildcats posted a 10-7-3 overall record in 2019, including 5-3-1 in the BIG EAST. Villanova advanced to the BIG EAST Tournament semifinals that season for the first time in 15 years. His five-year Villanova record was 35-46-5.

“Villanova will always hold a special place in my heart,” said McLain. “Having the opportunity to lead such a prestigious program will always be the highlight of my coaching career. I am proud that we advanced to the Final Four of the BIG EAST Championship in our third season, something that had not been done in over a decade at Villanova. Now, after 22 years of coaching, I believe it’s time for me to take a break and focus on my three children and the rock of my life, my wife.”

Associate Head Coach Daniel Clitnovici will serve as the program’s interim head coach while the search for the next coach is conducted.

(Photo Credit: Dave Evans / Bowstring Studios)