Richards leaving OSU women's soccer program
April 11, 2000
CORVALLIS, Ore. - Andy Richards, an assistant women's soccer coach at Oregon State for the past five seasons, is leaving the school to become head coach at Bowling Green, it was announced Tuesday. Richards, 33, worked in all apsects of the Beaver program but his primary role was coaching OSU's goalkeepers.
"It's a great opportunity," Richards said. "It's a school that has the same type of vision and leadership that I've experienced at Oregon State. I'm looking forward to success in the Mid-America Conference, and then national success in the future."
Richards will assume his new role immediately. Bowling Green is an NCAA Division I school located in Bowling Green, Ohio.
"It was bittersweet news," OSU head coach Steve Fennah said. "On one side, it's exciting for him because it's something he's been trying to do for a while. Obviously, I'm excited that he's realized a dream in that area but I'm sorry to be losing a good friend and a coach who has done a very good job for the program."
While coaching at Oregon State, Richards earned his master's degree in Physical Education. A native of Warwick, England, Richards had earned his bachelor's degree in Physical Education at Sheffield Hallamshire.
"I've had a great time over the past five years and worked with some great people," Richards said. "I'll miss the players tremendously ... Bowling Green is a college town that will allow me to become part of the community quickly. The soccer facilities are excellent, and it's a great match between what they're looking for and what I have to offer."
Fennah said the Beavers will look to hire a replacement for Richards as soon as possible.
