Missouri State women's soccer head coach Rob Brewer announced today the addition of Drew Fitzgerald to his coaching staff for 2011.  Fitzgerald was a volunteer assistant coach with the team last fall and takes the place of former assistant Josh Ganson.

"Drew has great attention to detail both on and off the field," said Brewer.  "He sees the game well and helped us to make positive adjustments last season.  He has a good rapport with the team.  Drew should hit the ground running and help keep the positive momentum going for us."

Before coming to Missouri State, Fitzgerald spent four seasons as a women's soccer assistant coach at McNeese State.  As an assistant with the Cowgirls, he helped the squad to an NCAA Tournament appearance in 2006.  He also helped guide the team to the Southland Conference Championship in 2007.  In 2008, he aided the team, which reached the Southland Conference Tournament finals.

"I'm very excited to join the Missouri State staff this year and am eager to begin the season," said Fitzgerald.  "Missouri State has a great tradition and Coach Brewer has a consistent record of winning.  Our student-athletes have demonstrated great character on the field and in the classroom.  I count myself lucky to be a part of this program."

Fitzgerald was the head coach of the Texas A&M men's club soccer team before landing at McNeese State.  As head coach of A&M's club team, he led them to the 2004 NIRSA National Championship.  His team was undefeated that season.

Fitzgerald earned a B.S. in Journalism (2001) and an M.S. in Sport Management (2005) from Texas A&M.  He also received his NSCAA National Diploma, Goalkeeper I & II diploma and the USSF National "D" License.

Fitzgerald's hire is pending final approval by the Missouri State University Board of Governors at its next meeting.

The women's soccer team begins the regular season on Friday, August 19 at UALR.  The team's home opener is Friday, September 2 with a 7:00 p.m. matchup against Kansas at Plaster Field.