BANGOR, Maine — Husson University announced that head men's soccer coach Gavin Penny has decided to step down at head coach after eight seasons.
"It is with tremendous sadness that my time at Husson is coming to an end. Since I moved to Bangor 10 years ago, Husson University and the men's soccer program has been an important part of my life," said Penny. "I came with one thought in mind and that was to help contribute to the athletics department success, recruit a more diverse group of players, create a more modern and entertaining style of play, as well as raising the overall passion of the game in and around the Bangor community.
During Penny's eight seasons on the sidelines the Eagles finished 73-49-10 overall with a 43-11-3 mark in North Atlantic Conference matchups. Penny guided Husson to the 2022 NAC tournament championship and its fourth NCAA Division III tournament appearance in school history.
His teams qualified for the postseason in every season and finished first in the NAC for three-consecutive seasons. He departs Husson with the second most head coaching wins in men's soccer history.
"Although it was a challenge, I can walk away proud of what we have accomplished together," Penny said. From the leadership to the players both past and present, as well as my peers in the athletic department who have been instrumental in my growth as a person and coach, and all those involved with football (soccer) in the Bangor community.
There are so many people I'd like to thank. President Clark, Frank Pergolizzi, and John Sutyak for their guidance and leadership. Janine Gmitter, Diann Ramsey, and Dennis Mullins for their continuous support and wisdom. John Boucher and our supporters for their generosity and support. Finally, all the student-athletes and coaches I have had the honor to work with over the years. It has been truly an amazing journey and one I won't forget."
Penny led the Eagles to three-straight NAC East Division regular-season championships and coached 25 NAC all-conference selections, one NAC player of the year and three United Soccer Coaches All-Region selections. Furthermore, he mentored five men's soccer senior scholar athlete recipients and two College Sports Communicators Academic All-District selections.
"I am very thankful for the work Gavin Penny has done to continue the proud tradition of our men's soccer program at Husson University," stated director of athletics, John Sutyak. "Gavin worked tirelessly to ensure Husson men's soccer continued to compete for conference championships, as well as achieve at equally high levels in the classroom. Although much of the foundation of his work was done before my arrival, it was a pleasure to witness the results of his many years of work."
"As I look forward to the next chapter, I will continue to be a fan from the sidelines, following Eagles athletic teams near and far in their relentless pursuit of excellence and success," stated Penny. All good things must come to an end, but the program is in a fantastic position for somebody new to bring in renewed energy, new concepts, and a fresh perspective. Husson Men's Soccer is all set for the years to come. Go Eagles!!"
Husson University will begin a national search for its next men's soccer coach immediately.
