The soccer team can no longer call Beth Acreman its coach.

Athletic Director Allen Ward made the decision Monday. He said the decision is the best move for the program’s future.

“(Acreman) worked hard and brought us our first two championships,” Ward said. “However, after fully evaluating the program, I believe a change at this time will benefit the team and the overall direction I’m looking for.”

Acreman was the second head coach in the program’s history, leading the team to the 2008 OVC regular-season championship and the 2009 OVC tournament championship. Her teams finished 32-31-8 in conference play and 65-75-7 overall.

“To win two championships is definitely fulfilling and I appreciate the opportunity to coach at a good school,” Acreman said. “I will not be looking to continue my coaching career, but have really enjoyed the last 14 years of coaching at this level.”

Ward said he looks forward to the future of the team, as he has confidence in it.

“I’m excited about the future of Racer soccer and the opportunity it has to be among the best in the OVC each and every year,” Ward said. “I fully expect our soccer program to consistently be one of the most successful women’s sports we have at Murray State.”

Murray State will conduct a national search for the program’s next coach immediately.

Story by Tom Via, Staff writer