The VIU Mariners Named New Coach
Larry Stefanek has been hired as the new men’s soccer coach.
Story courtesy of the VIU Mariners
Vancouver Island University Mariner Athletic Department is pleased to announce that Larry Stefanek has been hired as the new men’s soccer coach.
The hiring committee was thankful for the strong interest from the local soccer community and all the applicants who expressed interest in the position. Comments Stephanie White, Director of High Performance Sports, Recreation and Physical Literacy at VIU.
White said “Stefanek demonstrated a commitment to the values we are looking for in our VIU coaches.”
Larry has over 25 years of coaching experience across various levels from youth players to adults. He has successfully guided teams at the high school, BC Summer Games, Metro, VIPL, BCSPL, U21 and PCSL levels. Currently the Associate Head Coach of the Vancouver Whitecaps FC Upper Island Academy and Technical Director for both the Upper Island Storm and Oceanside Youth Soccer Society. A nationally licensed coach, Stefanek holds a Canadian Soccer Association B License and will be completing the first part of the National A License this summer. Larry is a Learning Facilitator for BC Soccer and has a B.Ed in Physical Education and a M.Ed. in Coaching Studies.
A former player at both Malaspina College and the University of Victoria, he was named an All-Canadian and Canada West All-Star at Victoria. Larry’s playing days also included a Canadian National U16 camp, the U18 National Futsal team and the Canadian FISU Games team.
“Larry brings years of experience as an educator to the role and his strong connections to soccer communities across the Island and in BC will be an asset.” remarks Stephanie White.
“I am very excited to be joining the VIU program which has been extremely successful over a number of recent seasons. Leading the men’s team into this new era will be a great opportunity and challenge that. I am immensely looking forward to. “ Stefanek said
Stephanie White commented “I believe Larry’s commitment to developing student-athletes on the pitch and off the pitch along with his technical knowledge will continue to foster a culture of excellence with our men’s soccer program.”