BLUFFTON -- Head women's soccer coach Jay Harris announced that he has resigned his position of head coach and has accepted the same position at Barry University in Miami Shores.
"Every Athletic Director is tasked with hiring and retaining the best coaches possible," said Director Athletics Quin Monahan. "In many ways it's the most important thing we do. So, losing Coach Harris is a tough pill to swallow, but with that being said, however, I'm excited for Jay and his family and for the opportunity they've been given."
USCB soccer's all-time winningest coach leaves the program after spending six years at the helm amassing a 62-44-6 overall record after joining the coaching staff in March of 2018 as an assistant coach. He was then named the interim head coach following the departure of Ed Heberling. Beaufort finished 8-9-1, the only time USCB finished under .500 during Harris' tenure. The 2019 campaign saw the Sand Sharks finish 9-8 and starting in 2020-21, USCB produced four consecutive seasons 10-plus wins culminating in a program best 13-4-2 record in 2023, including a perfect 10-0 at Fin Land.
"Coach Harris has been a phenomenal Sand Shark and I am grateful for the dedication he has shown, and the success he has achieved, for our Women's Soccer program," Monahan said. He has positioned us well in the Peach Belt Conference, and the next coach coming in will be a beneficiary of the commitment he has shown this program. We wish Jay all the best at Barry."
During his time in the Lowcountry, USCB reached the postseason in all but one season - the shortened COVID 19 season - including three trips to the conference semifinals and twice to the quarterfinals. Harris has coached 11 All-Conference student-athletes through three different conferences including all-time leading scorer and three-time all conference member Mari Kalvatn, who earned the program's first Peach Belt first team nod in November.
"After six years at USCB I am filled with gratitude for the incredible journey," said Harris. "I want to express my deepest appreciation to the players, staff, administrators, and the entire Sand Shark family. I'll forever be indebted to Quin for entrusting me to lead this program and a heartfelt thank you to him and Genia Montford for their exceptional support. Their leadership, vision, and mentorship have been instrumental in my own and the programs growth."
A national search will begin immediately in search for Harris' replacement. Assistant coach Dan Huff will remain on staff and has taken over the day-to-day duties until a new coach can be found.
"I am confident in the future of the program and in the foundation we have built. Life is about people and experiences; it has been six amazing years and I'm eternally grateful for the camaraderie and memories shared on and off the field."
