Jan. 2, 2008

VILLANOVA, Pa. - Villanova University Director of Athletics Vince Nicastro today announced the resignation of head women's soccer coach Ann Clifton.

"We want to thank Ann for her dedication and commitment to Villanova over the last 11 years," said Nicastro. "Ann has been instrumental in guiding Villanova's Women's Soccer into a nationally recognized program. We are genuinely appreciative of Ann's commitment to Villanova and wish her all the best in the future."

The all-time winningest coach in the history of the Villanova women's soccer program, Clifton has compiled a 135-65-31 mark during her 11-year Wildcat career. Clifton has guided Villanova to an NCAA Tournament berth in five of the last seven years, including a trip to the Sweet 16 in 2003. In addition, during the 2003 season, Clifton led the Wildcats to their first-ever Big East Conference championship. Clifton was named the NSCAA Mid-Atlantic Region Coach of the Year in 2003 and Southeastern Pennsylvania Soccer Coaches Association Coach of the Year in 2006.

During the 2006 campaign, Clifton and the Wildcats set numerous school records. In addition to setting school marks for wins in a season with seven conference and 16 total victories, Villanova also tallied the longest winning streak (10 games) and longest unbeaten streak (15 games, 13-0-2) in school history. Clifton has compiled one of the stingiest defensive units in the entire nation. In the 2006 season, only 11 goals were allowed by the team, which was the lowest in school history. In addition, her 2007 recruiting class was also recognized as one of the top 25 classes in the country.

This past season, Clifton led Villanova to an 11-4-6 record and a berth in the Big East Conference Tournament. Villanova defeated the University of South Florida, 2-0, in the first round and was defeated by the eventual Big East Conference champion West Virginia, 1-0.

"It has been an amazing journey to be at the helm of Villanova University Women's Soccer and it was an honor to formulate the program into being nationally recognized for success," said Clifton. "I have had the opportunity to accomplish many wonderful achievements with hard work and commitment to Villanova University. As I move, with great anticipation, to the next chapter in my life, I wish the best of luck to the future of Villanova Women's Soccer."

Villanova will begin an immediate national search for Clifton's successor.