August 26, 2005

FARMVILLE, Va. – Longwood University men’s soccer head coach Jon Atkinson has announced the recent appointment of Matt Kirkpatrick as a new assistant coach with the program at the institution. Kirkpatrick had previously been the Director of Sports and Community Development for the Chester, Va., YMCA since 2002.

"I am delighted to have an assistant of Matt’s caliber on board," stated Atkinson. "He has already added so much with his exuberance and passion for the game. A native of England, Matt brings a dedicated approach to the program with his professional background and knows the hard work and dedication needed to succeed at the top level. Our players will undoubtedly benefit from the knowledge he brings to the game."

Prior to his time at the Chester YMCA, Kirkpatrick was an assistant coach for the Richmond Strikers from 2000-02 where he also assisted with the Strikers and Richmond Kickers soccer camps. He also assisted with the Yavapai (Ariz.) Junior College soccer camps (1997-98).

"I am very excited about the program here at Longwood and the upcoming season," said Kirkpatrick. "The University has given me a great opportunity and I plan to grab it with both hands. I am looking forward to supporting Jon, and forming a great partnership with him so we can help move the program to the next level."

Kirkpatrick played collegiately at Virginia Commonwealth University (1998-2000), serving as team captain as a senior. He also played at Yavapai (1996-98), captaining the school’s 1997 National Junior College Championship team. After graduation, Kirkpatrick played professionally for the A-League’s San Francisco Bay Area Seals in 2000.

A native of Sheffield, England, Kirkpatrick earned his bachelor of science in sociology from VCU. He has playing experience with Sheffield Wednesday FC as well and earned his FA Preliminary Coaching Badge in 1996 (Rotherham).