Dec. 17, 2008

CHARLOTTE, N.C. - Charlotte 49ers Director of Athletics Judy Rose announced the resignation of women's soccer coach Jon Lipsitz, who resigned to take the head coaching position at the University of Kentucky. Lipsitz leaves Charlotte after four seasons at the helm of the 49ers nationally-ranked women's soccer program. Lipsitz steps down after leading the 49ers to 58-23-4 record, three Atlantic 10 regular season titles, two Atlantic 10 Tournament titles and two NCAA Tournament appearances in his tenure as head coach.

"We appreciate Jon's leadership the past four years," Rose said. "He has taken our women's soccer program to not only the top of the Atlantic 10 but made it one of the top programs in the country. We wish him the best of the luck."

Lipsitz was named Atlantic 10 Coach of the Year in 2007 after leading the 49ers to the A-10 regular-season championship, A-10 Tournament title and a berth in the NCAA Tournament. In 2008, he led the 49ers to a school-record 18 wins, a perfect 11-0 A-10 mark and the second-round of the NCAA Tournament.

During his tenure, Charlotte had two players named A-10 Midfielder of the Year, one player named A-10 Offensive Player of the Year and one A-10 Rookie of the Year. Twelve different players earned All-Atlantic 10 honors during his time with the 49ers. Seven women's soccer players were named ESPN The Magazine Academic All-Americans over his four years with the 49ers.

"It is impossible for me to adequately express my appreciation for the opportunity that Judy Rose, Kim Whitestone, Darin Spease and others have given me here at Charlotte," Lipsitz said. "With their great support, and the dedication of the players, we have built a top national program together. These young women who play at Charlotte are committed to being the best and have accomplished some amazing things. I know they will continue this great success in the future."

A national search for his replacement will begin immediately.