Joe Kerwin Returns as Head Coach at U. of Oregon

from Laxpower.com

Eugene, Or. – After a successful season in which the University of Oregon returned to the MCLA National Championships in Denver, Co., big news came out from the Ducks camp yesterday with the announcement that former Duck Head Coach Joe Kerwin, who took Oregon to the National Championship in 2007, will return to Eugene. Kerwin took the job as head coach of Notre Dame De Namur University in 2008, the year after he not only led the Ducks to the National Championship but also won both the MCLA and PNCLL Coach of the Year awards. Kerwin led NDNU to a 16-6 record over his two seasons with the program.

Co-Head Coaches Andrew Clough and John Wright jointly decided to step down after Kerwin contacted the University of Oregon about a potential comeback citing his desire to return to Eugene and the University. Clough and Wright helped to rebuild the Oregon program in 2008 after a disappointing 2007 season. "I am very proud of our accomplishments this year," Coach Clough said. "Our goal this year was to put Oregon back on the map for premier MCLA lacrosse play. I believe we did just that. I am looking forward to seeing what this young team can do in the future." Coach Kerwin said of his decision to return, "This decision really wasn't about NDNU and their program. Coaching those guys was great and I have a great respect for the program that they have. Basically I just wanted to come back to Eugene because of the city and the love I have for the University."

When asked about the decision to step down, Coach Clough said, "It was an amicable and mutual decision. What we have here is a case where everyone involved was thinking about what is best for the program. I think this is definitely a positive step for the Ducks in that not only do we get a great coach in Coach Kerwin, but he also brings added legitimacy to the program from a NCAA DII school."

Both Coach Wright and Coach Clough have been asked to stay with the team and build on the accomplishments of this past year. Coach Clough is currently considering the opportunity while Coach Wright will travel back to his home state of North Carolina in order to pursue other coaching opportunities. Coach Wright said of the future, "I thought that Coach Kerwin coming back will be another step forward for our program after our accomplishments last year and I'm really looking forward to watching what the Ducks do in the future." The entire Oregon Lacrosse family thanks both Coaches Clough and Wright for their dedication and commitment and wishes them continued success in the future.