By Megan Maharry
Sports Editor
Women’s head soccer coach James Ross has resigned, the athletic department announced on Friday.
He finished the 2018 Lady Ranger soccer season 3-12-1 overall and had four players make the All-Great American Conference teams.
The athletic department, the soccer team and Ross met on Friday when Ross informed his team of his resignation.
Senior Karla Lopez said she was really excited for the upcoming season and to see what Ross had on the table for us.
“Unfortunately, we didn’t get the results we wanted, but he made us better people both mentally and physically,” Lopez said. “And his resignation was like a kick in the throat.”
Freshman Mikayla Edris said Ross was a great coach and not only cared about the team as players, but also as individuals.
“I think it was hard on the whole team when he left,” Edris said.
Freshman Kialani Kealoha said Ross made soccer a lot of fun.
“He made me want to be a better player and teammate overall,” Kealoha said.
Both Edris and Kealoha said when Ross first resigned, they really questioned if they would return next season to play. As of now, though, the freshmen plan to return for another year.
Senior Calvonis Prentice had positive things to say about Ross. She said he was a great coach and cared about the team’s well-being.
“I feel like administration didn’t support him as much as they should have throughout the season,” Prentice sad. “God Bless.”
Sophomore Hudsyn Childs said no comment.
Director of Athletics Brad Franz made a statement on the athletic website about Ross’s resignation.
“We would like to thank Coach Ross for his time leading the program and respect his decision. We wish him the best of luck in the future,” Franz said. “There is a great group of returners to help begin the next chapter of Lady Ranger soccer.”
The search for a new head coach will begin immediately, according to the athletic department.