Ryan Mendonca Named Head Coach of Lancer Men’s Soccer

Mike Havey, Director of Athletics and Recreational Services has announced the hiring of Ryan Mendonca as the new head coach of the Lancer men’s soccer team. The hiring is effective immediately.

Widely respected in the Windsor-Essex soccer community, Mendonca is no stranger to the Lancer soccer program. He has previously served as an assistant coach with both the men’s and women’s programs under current women’s soccer head coach Steve Hart.

“With the return of Coach Mendonca to the Lancer coaching staff in the role of head coach of the men’s program, the team leadership is in good hands,” said Havey. “He is well connected and respected in the local soccer community.”

The announcement follows the resignation of Steve Vagnini, who stepped down from the position for personal reasons after just one season at the helm of the Blue & Gold.

“We express our sincere thanks to Steve for his commitment to his student-athletes and wish him all the best in the future,” said Havey.

Over the past decade, Mendonca has been involved with the Lancer Soccer program in a number of roles. Most recently, he served as an assistant coach with the men’s program in 2015, while also taking on the goaltender coaching responsibilities for both the men and women. He previously served as the goaltending coach for the Lancers in 2010 & 2011, and was an associate head coach with the women’s team in 2012.

Also technical director for the Tecumseh Soccer Club for the past four years, Mendonca responsibilities include the recruitment and development of players and coaches at all levels. TSC was recently awarded OPDL License to compete in the highest standards base league in Ontario.

Coach Mendonca is flattered to be named the next head coach of the Lancer program.

“I am extremely excited and honoured to be awarded this opportunity,” said Mendonca. “Throughout my years as an assistant with the Lancers, I always wanted to serve this program in the position of head coach, and now that my time has come, it is extremely humbling to be tasked with the continued growth of Lancers men’s soccer.”

“The chance to serve these players as their coach and mentor is a tremendous opportunity and responsibility,” the Tecumseh, Ontario native continued. “I look forward to finding ways to engage each person and enrich the educational experience on and off the field.”