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Rattlers announce new soccer coaches

Jul 16, 2018 | 10:20 AM

MEDICINE HAT, AB — The Mediicne Hat College Rattlers soccer and futsal teams will have new coaches for the 2018-19 season.

The college announced on Monday that Ian Tully will coach the men’s team, while Stephen Newton will coach the women’s team.

According to the news release, Tully played soccer more 30 years, has coached for 20 years, and has also been a Soccer Alberta official. He has coached local U14, U16 and U18 rep teams, leading the U16 team to a provincial gold medal. He also also coached men’s senior league in the city.

“It is my belief that with the right attitude, effort and commitment, great things can be achieved both as an individual and as a team,” Tully said in a statement. “I believe that MHC has an excellent soccer program offering students a fantastic opportunity to create memories they will cherish for a long time. I am looking forward to an exciting and challenging season ahead.” 

Newton has been a player and coach for over 15 years, including a stint doing both in the British Military, according to the release. Locally, he has coached with both the Medicine Hat Soccer Association and the Rattlers Academy Soccer Club from the Timbit level up to U14. Newton has also assisted with local U10, U12 and U14 development programs.

“My main goal for the upcoming season would be to help the team get as much enjoyment out of football as I did when I played,” said Newton in a statement. “I believe this is paramount in keeping the girls interested in the game and having them continue with the sport that they love.”

Last season, both teams competed at the Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference Provincial Championships, but came home empty handed.

In futsal, the women’s won ACAC gold, while the men’s team came home with a bronze medal.