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Mike Babst Departs UChicago, Hired as Head Men’s Soccer Coach at Davidson

Mike Babst Departs UChicago, Hired as Head Men’s Soccer Coach at Davidson
Posted: Jan 17, 2019

From University of Chicago Athletics

Davidson College announced on Thursday that the Wildcats have hired Mike Babst as their next head men's soccer coach. Babst led the University of Chicago men's soccer program from 2013-18.

Babst departs UChicago as the program's all-time leader in winning percentage (.762). Over his six seasons with the Maroons, the team posted an overall record of 87-23-12, including a 28-9-5 mark in the University Athletic Association (UAA). UChicago has qualified for the NCAA postseason for five-straight years, winning four of the past five UAA titles in the process.

"The University of Chicago will always be such a special place for me and my family," said Babst. "There are so many great memories and meaningful relationships that I will carry with me for the rest of my life. I feel so fortunate to have spent the last five-and-a-half years surrounded by such talented and interesting people who gave everything of themselves as competitors. My family and I will be lifelong UChicago soccer fans. I know the group I leave now will carry on the championship culture, and that what has been established over these past years will continue to grow under the next head coach."

The Maroons made a return trip to the NCAA semifinals for the second-straight year in 2018, posting an 18-3-1 record. Forwards Max Lopez and Matthew Koh were picked as First Team All-Americans – the third such honor for Lopez. Koh was named the UAA MVP as well.

"We thank Mike for his terrific leadership as head coach for six seasons," said Erin McDermott, Director of Athletics & Recreation. "UChicago Men's Soccer is respected nationally largely due to his efforts and commitment to the student-athletes he has coached and recruited.

"We are committed to sustaining this level of excellence and we will soon launch a national search for an outstanding leader. I am confident that we will be successful in hiring a talented coach and committed mentor."

During Babst's tenure, the Maroons broke 11 team records and set or tied 11 individual school records. His players compiled 12 All-American awards, 21 All-Region accolades, three UAA MVPs, 30 All-UAA honors and four UAA Rookies of the Year. Additionally, Babst was a two-time UAA Coach of the Year and one-time NSCAA Central Region Coach of the Year.