WolfPack announces new women’s soccer coach

Feb 12, 2019 | 12:18 PM

KAMLOOPS — The TRU WolfPack has hired a new head coach for the women’s soccer program — the third coach in five years.

According to a news release, TRU Athletics and Recreation Director Curtis Atkinson announced today that Mark Pennington will take over the program immediately.

The 39-year-old from Newcastle upon Tyne, England, is looking forward to taking on this new challenge.

“I am really excited about this opportunity. I think this is a great school in a great area with huge potential,” Pennington says. “I feel that I’ll bring a fresh perspective and approach to the team and I believe that I can push this program to the next level. I am really lucky to be here and can’t wait to get started.”

Pennington’s resume includes assistant coach with the UBC Thunderbirds, and Club Technical director of the SurDel Soccer Club in Delta. Pennington was the head coach of the coastal FC U18 and U13 girls programs in South Surrey.

He had been with the UBC program for three seasons and helped them take the Canada West title and silver at the CIS nationals in 2016.

“I definitely think there are some talented players here, and some good recruits coming in,” Pennington says. “I feel my experience in this division will allow me to change the tactical approach of the team in some specific areas to be more competitive ultimately looking to challenge for a playoff spot. It’s going to take time but with a shift of team identity, belief and tactical preparation there’s no reason we can’t be a more competitive team in the Canada West Pacific Division.”

Pennington takes over a WolfPack team which finished 3-9-2 in 2018 and were tied for last place in the Canada West Pacific Division. They haven’t qualified for playoffs in four years.