Lynn University announced today the hiring of Chip Dutchik as its new head women’s soccer coach.  Dutchik, who becomes just the third coach in NCAA Division II program’s history, has been assistant coach at Missouri State University the last three seasons.

 

“It’s a bitter sweet day for our program,” said Missouri State head coach Rob Brewer. “We’re happy for Chip and very proud of him. But, he’s been an invaluable part of our program, and we are disappointed to be losing him. We wish him the very best and hope he has success.”

 

The Bears were 26-27-6 during Dutchik’s three seasons at Missouri State, reaching the Missouri Valley Conference semifinals twice during that span. A native of Wentzville, Mo., Dutchik started his coaching career as men’s assistant soccer coach at Missouri Baptist University in St. Louis, his alma mater. After two seasons in that role, he became MBU’s head women’s coach in December of 2004, going 11-10 in his only season before accepting the women’s assistant coach position at Missouri State in 2006.

 

“I was fortunate to work with a great program and head coach in Rod Brewer at Missouri State, and I believe that has helped me get to this point,” said Dutchik.  “I think I’m walking into a good situation with a program that has a lot of traditon.”

 

Lynn, located in Boca Raton, Fla., has claimed four NCAA Division II titles and averaged 19 wins since making its first postseason appearance in 1991. The Fighting Knights will return seven starters this season from a 10-6-2 squad.

 

“We are excited to welcome Chip and his family to the Lynn University team,” said Moraz in a release issued by Lynn University. “His commitment to hard work and discipline and ability to recruit talented scholar-athletes makes him a great fit for our athletics program.  We look forward to the leadership Coach Dutchik will provide the women’s soccer program as we reach for new heights of success.”