Florida Polytechnic University has named Jack Paris as the first head coach of its women’s soccer program as the University continues building its new athletics department.
Paris brings a collegiate coaching experience and a professional playing background to Florida Poly. Prior to joining the University, he spent four years at Webber International University in Babson Park and previously coached at Eckerd College in St. Petersburg. As a player, he competed professionally with the Blackburn Rovers in England as well as with teams in Denmark and Iceland.
Paris said the opportunity to launch a college program from scratch and shape its direction were major factors in his decision to join Florida Poly.
“I think that the opportunity to take that on is extremely exciting, and I’ve always wanted to be part of something like that,” Paris said. “I like that you can set the foundation, the structure of the program, and shape the chemistry of the team from the start.”
Florida Poly’s 100% STEM focus also stood out to Paris as he began recruiting student-athletes for the inaugural roster. He said the ideal Florida Poly player must excel in the classroom and on the field.
“We’re recruiting for not just the athlete, but the student part first,” Paris said. “Florida Poly is a very niche kind of school, and we have to have well-rounded players who are good in the classroom and on the field.”
Recruiting is well underway, and Paris said the response has been strong, with the women’s soccer team developing as a mix of incoming freshmen, junior college transfers and international players.
“There’s been a lot of interest,” he said. “A lot of students want to be a part of the inaugural team, and if I was a player, I’d be excited, too.”
Paris said he hopes to build a roster of 15 to 16 players in the program’s first year and help the team compete quickly while setting a foundation for long-term success. He also will strive for his team to grow beyond the game through discipline, structure and teamwork.
Derek Lower, Florida Poly’s athletic director, said Paris immediately clicked with the University’s vision for the new program.
“Jack is 100% committed to everything he does,” Lower said. “On day one, Jack walked in like he had been a Florida Poly Phoenix since the day he was born. We are excited to have him on our team.”
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