Wednesday, May 17, 2017
by Saint Martin's Athletic Communciations

LACEY, Wash. - Saint Martin's Director of Athletics Bob Grisham announced that Rob Walker, previously director of soccer, will be stepping away from the Women's soccer program to become a full time head coach for the Men's soccer team.

Walker started both programs at the club level in 2006 before both squads officially joined the Great Northwest Athletic Conference in 2007. In 2009, he led the men's soccer team to the school's first-ever GNAC title on his way to earning GNAC Coach of the Year honors. He was also named Co-Coach of the Year on the women's side.  Walker has served as a member of both NCAA Regional Advising Committee for Men's and Women's soccer and served as West Regional Ranking Committee member for Men's and Women's Soccer.

"I am appreciative of the efforts that Coach Walker has demonstrated to both our men's and women's soccer programs the past ten years." said Grisham. 

Walker has amassed 52 wins in both the men's and women's programs for a total of 104 victories over the previous 10 seasons. In the past season, both programs finished the year with three wins, with the men finishing sixth in the conference and the women in ninth. 

"It's important to have a coach devoted to coaching one program due to the time and commitment involved in building success on the pitch and in the classroom," Grisham said. "I feel strongly that this is the best move for both our men's and women's programs and I am excited about the future for both."

Grisham and the Saint Martin's Athletic Department will begin a nationwide search immediately.