By Dan Marshall

Mariners name Stefanek new men’s soccer coach

May 16, 2018 | 9:35 AM

NANAIMO — Filling the void left by the departure of VIU men’s soccer coach Bill Merriman won’t be easy but the Mariners believe they’ve found the right candidate in Larry Stefanek.
 
The new coach once played for VIU when it was known as Malaspina College and has over 25 years of coaching experience.
 
Most recently Stefanek has been the associate head coach of the Vancouver Whitecaps FC Upper Island Academy squad.
 
He also serves as technical director for the Upper Island Storm and the Oceanside Youth Soccer Society.
 
Stefanek said in a VIU media release that he’s excited to be joining such an accomplished program.
 
“Leading the men’s team into this new era will be a great opportunity and challenge that I am immensely looking forward to,” according to Stefanek.

VIU’s men’s soccer team is coming off a national championship victory on home turf last November.
 
The PACWEST soccer season begins right after the Labour Day weekend.
 
 
dan@nanaimonewsnow.com
 
On twitter: @danmarshall77