CMU Women’s Soccer: New Leadership Announced

Central Michigan Soccer Program Announces Leadership Change, Begins National Search

A national search is underway for a new head coach of teh Central Michigan University women’s soccer program, following the departure of Jeremy Groves after seven seasons. The decision signals a shift in direction for the Chippewas, as the program aims to regain its competitive edge.

Central Michigan Athletics’ leadership announced the change on Thursday, with Zyzelewski Family Vice President/Director of Athletics Amy Folan expressing gratitude for Groves’ contributions while outlining the need for a fresh approach. “I want to thank Coach Groves for his dedication to-and impact on-our student-athletes, the university, and Mount Pleasant community during his seven seasons of service at Central Michigan University,” Folan stated. “At this time, I have determined that we need to go in a different direction with our women’s soccer program. I am confident that with our program’s history of success, our commitment to women’s soccer and our track record of developing female student-athletes will attract a high-caliber candidate pool.”

Did you know? – Central Michigan University is located in Mount Pleasant, Michigan, and competes in the Mid-American Conference (MAC). The MAC sponsors women’s soccer as one of its championship sports.

Groves’ Tenure at Central Michigan

During his seven years leading the Chippewas, Groves amassed an overall record of 31-59-24 and a Mid-American Conference (MAC) record of 21-38-17. He guided the team to two MAC Championship appearances, in 2019 and 2021. His most successful season came in 2021,where Central Michigan achieved a 9-8-1 overall record and a 6-4-1 MAC record,securing a berth in the MAC Tournament.

However, recent performance has been a concern. The team concluded the 2025 season with a 1-14-3 overall record and a 1-8-3 record within the MAC. This marked the fourth consecutive year the Chippewas failed to qualify for postseason play, prompting the leadership change. A past performance chart illustrating the team’s record over the past decade would provide valuable context.

Pro tip: – When evaluating college soccer coaches, athletic directors often consider factors beyond win-loss records, including academic performance of players and community involvement.

Interim Leadership and Future Outlook

Assistant Coach Keyton Wheelock will assume the role of interim head coach while the national search is conducted. The university is optimistic that its established history of success in women’s soccer, coupled with its commitment to student-athlete development, will attract a strong pool of candidates.

The search will focus on identifying a leader capable of revitalizing the program and returning it to a position of prominence within the MAC. The appointment of a new head coach represents a pivotal moment for Central Michigan women’s soccer, with the hope of ushering in a new era of success.

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reader question: – What qualities do you think are most important for the next head coach to possess to turn the program around? Share your thoughts!

Expanded News Report Summary:

Why: Central Michigan University fired head women’s soccer coach Jeremy Groves due to consistently poor performance, culminating in a 1-14-3 season in 2025 and four consecutive years of missing the postseason.Athletic Director Amy Folan determined a “different direction” was needed for the program.

Who: Jeremy Groves was relieved of his duties after seven seasons.Keyton Wheelock, an assistant coach, will serve as interim head coach during the national search. Amy Folan, the Athletic Director, made the decision and announced it.

What: Central Michigan University is conducting a national search for a new head women’s soccer coach.Groves’ overall record was 31-59-