UVA assistant Hopkins accepts head coaching position at San Diego State
Posted on Tuesday, Jan. 21, 2020, 6:34 pm
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Courtesy UVA Media Relations
Photo: UVA Athletics
Virginia men’s soccer assistant coach Ryan Hopkins officially accepted the head coaching position at San Diego State on Tuesday afternoon. Hopkins served on head coach George Gelnovatch’s staff the past two seasons.
Hopkins, a Southern California native, was featured as one of College Soccer News’ Top-15 Assistant Coaches for his work with Virginia this past season. It marked the third time in the last four seasons Hopkins had been included on the list.
“Ryan has been immersed in every aspect of our program over the past two years,” Gelnovatch said. “He is full of potential and is ready for this challenge, San Diego State is getting a good one. We wish Ryan all the best and we will miss him.”
Hopkins proved pivotal in Virginia’s success on the field the last two seasons in which the Cavaliers owned a 31-6-4 overall record. In 2019, the Cavaliers made the program’s 13th trip to the College Cup and advanced to the National Championship game before falling to Georgetown in penalty kicks.
“It is with somewhat mixed emotions that I accept the position at San Diego State,” Hopkins said. “I’m extremely grateful for my time at UVA as I truly believe that it is at the top of the college soccer world in pursuing an elite education and competing at the highest of levels of soccer.”
“I’m so thankful for the support staff that I have been able to work with, I often say it takes a village and there is a pretty special one here. I also have to especially thank Coach Gelnovatch and Coach (Matt) Chulis who welcomed me with open arms two years ago and allowed me to grow in my role at the most prestigious soccer program in college soccer. Finally, to the players, I will miss you all and continue to be your fan from afar!”
In his two seasons working with Virginia goalkeepers, Colin Shutler has garnered First Team All-America honors along with All-Region and All-ACC accolades. Shutler led the nation with 15 shutouts in 2019 and his 0.53 goals against average was the lowest of any goalkeeper in the country.
Off the pitch, the Cavaliers earned a United Soccer Coaches Team Academic award for the second time in program history. Junior Midfielder Joe Bell was the first Cavalier to win the prestigious United Soccer Coaches Scholar-Athlete of the Year.
Hopkins joins former Virginia assistant coach, Terry Boss (Oregon State) who also landed a PAC-12 head coaching position after his tenure in Charlottesville.
Virginia will begin a national search for Hopkins’ replacement immediately.
