SLU Names Donigan Head Men's Soccer Coach

ST. LOUIS - Saint Louis University director of athletics Doug Woolard introduced Dan Donigan this afternoon as the head coach of the Billikens' men's soccer program. Becoming only the fifth head coach in the Billikens' 42-year-old program, Donigan succeeds Bob Warming who resigned to take over similar duties at Creighton University.

"In looking at the qualifications that we had developed during our last national search for a head coach, it became clearly evident that the individual to lead our men's soccer program was already on board," Woolard said. "Dan is one of the bright, young coaching talents in NCAA soccer. His ability to lead and recruit quality young men is a proven talent. He's worked under two of the best in the business at this level in Bob Warming and Joe Morrone, so he's equal to the task at hand."

"I'm excited and proud to take over the reins of this program," Donigan said. "We have an outstanding team in place and this ensures a smooth transition for our student-athletes. I've been involved in both recruiting and coaching all of our players, so I anticipate that we will continue to move forward in a fashion consistent with the great history of this program."

Donigan joined the Billiken coaching staff in 1997 after three seasons as the top assistant at his alma mater, the University of Connecticut. Donigan has vast experience as both a player and coach. He holds a USSF "A" Coaching license as well as his NSCAA Advanced National Coaching Diploma, and he was one of the most heralded collegiate soccer players in the nation during his four-year career at UConn.

The 34-year-old Donigan began his collegiate coaching career in 1994 when he returned to UConn. Prior to his selection as assistant coach at UConn, Donigan was playing professionally as a member of the Milwaukee Wave (NPSL) and of the Rockford Raptors (U.S. Interregional Soccer League). He has played professionally for a variety of outdoor and indoor teams including the St. Louis Steamers, St. Louis Ambush and St. Louis Storm.

While at UConn from 1985-88, Donigan was a three-time All-American and first-team All-New England forward. He received the adidas Adi Dasslar Award as the nation's "Most Outstanding Senior Soccer Player" in 1988. An All-America pick his last three seasons, Donigan was a finalist for Missouri Athletic Club Player of the Year honors as a junior and senior. As part of the Big East's 10-year anniversary in 1991, Donigan was further honored as the Big East Player of the Decade. Donigan finished his UConn career with 35 goals and 40 assists for 110 points. In the Huskies' record book, he ranks fifth in all-time scoring, second in career assists and sixth in career goals.

Warming departs after leading the Billikens to four Conference USA championships in four seasons. The Billikens advanced to the NCAA Tournament in each season and reached the national semifinals in 1997. His four-year career record with the Billikens was 60-17-10 (.747). His 24-year career record is 266-135-37 (.650).