MUW has found a new face to lead its men’s soccer team and guide it upward.
Stewart Mena, a former soccer assistant coach at the University of the Ozarks, has been selected as The W’s men’s soccer program’s third head coach, the university announced Thursday. He joins the team directly from the Ozarks, where he’s worked since 2019, and helped coach the Eagles capture an American Southwest Conference championship and a 7-4-1 record in the 2020 season – an achievement that earned the coaching staff the United Soccer Coaches Regional Coaching Staff of the Year.
“We are excited to have Coach Mena take the reins of Owls men’s soccer,” MUW athletic director Buddy Foster said. “He brings a wealth of NCAA Division III experience, as well as a familiarity with soccer in this region, to the table. I believe that his enthusiasm, knowledge of the game, and commitment to academic success will all have a positive effect on our program.”
Under Mena, players have racked up 39 all-conference selections, four offensive freshman of the year and two defensive freshman of the year awards, one NCAA Division III all-region selection and one offensive, defensive and goalkeeper of the year honors.
Last season, the Owls went 3-13-1 under former head coach BJ Pheasant.
“I am extremely honored and grateful for the opportunity to lead the Mississippi University for Women men’s soccer program,” Mena said. “I love being part of something special, and I truly believe that The W is just the right community for me. I’ve had the privilege to work under great coaches and can’t wait to showcase what I’ve learned throughout the years. I want to thank athletic director Buddy Foster, the administration and the search committee for their trust and belief in my vision.”
Mena is a native of Medellin, Colombia, and moved to Drexel Hill, Penn., with his parents when he was 13. Mena played soccer at Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College from 2014-2016 and was named to the MACCC all-state team before moving on to finish his career with the Eagles.
“This is a program with strong potential,” Mena said. “And I am excited to build a culture based on dedication, resiliency and fun. I truly believe that if we can focus on that, the good results will follow. My goal is to create a competitive, hardworking, and disciplined team that represents this university with pride both on and off the field. Fans can expect to see a team that will never give up on the pitch and will make the most of every opportunity presented. Most importantly, I will let my players express their creativity in the attack.”
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