ORANGE, Calif. – TJ Perez has been selected as the next Head Coach of the Chapman University women's soccer team. Perez becomes the fifth Head Coach in Chapman's Division III history, taking over the role immediately.
"First, I would like to thank Doug, Terry, Raquel and all those involved in the hiring process. I felt a strong commitment and passion from everyone about Chapman University," Perez stated. "I'm excited to get going and meet the team. Chapman University is a beautiful campus in a great location and in a strong competitive conference."
Perez spent the last five seasons at NCAA Division II Minot State, spending two years as an Assistant Coach and three years as the Head Coach. During his three seasons, he led the Beavers' women's soccer team to the NSIC Tournament Championship Game twice and compiled a record of 26-15-18.
In his three seasons as Head Coach, the Beavers had 14 players earn All-Conference honors with two also being selected to All-Region teams and one being named an Academic All-American. In his final season, he coached the NSIC Freshman of the Year and six All-NSIC selections.
"We're excited to welcome Coach Perez into the Chapman Athletics family and believe he will fit in quite well here. Coach Perez articulated a vision for our women's soccer program that resonated with those involved in the coaching search, and we expect he'll build upon the strong culture and history of success that we've had here at Chapman," commented Associate Director of Athletics Doug Aiken. "We have heard nothing but glowing feedback from people that he has worked with and players that he's coached and we're looking forward to seeing how our student-athletes benefit from his leadership."
Before Minot State, Perez spent two seasons as an Assistant Coach at his alma mater, Sonoma State. His collegiate coaching career began immediately after his playing career with the Seawolves. He scored 10 goals in two seasons at Sonoma State after transferring from Cal State LA, where he contributed to two NCAA Tournament appearances as an underclassmen.
Perez also brings a wealth of coaching experience at the club level, coaching with the Magic City Legends U23m U19 and U12 teams. He also coached with the Santa Rosa United and North Coast FC.
He has completed the United Soccer Coaches' Coach Credentialing Program as well as obtained a National C License, National D License and National E License from US Soccer.
"The first steps are to create connections and build our culture together" Perez added. "It is all about Us, Ours, and We. I want us to Enjoy what we do, build our Trust, be Honest, and Compete for everything we do together."
