SPRING ARBOR, Mich. – After serving as an assistant coach for Spring Arbor University men’s soccer the past three seasons, Eric Salley has been named the new head men’s soccer coach at Trinity Christian College.
“I am very thankful to Nate for his mentorship and the opportunity he gave me to begin my coaching career,” said Salley. “I can’t put into words how much he has taught me and helped me over the years. I have enjoyed my time working with the team and wish them the best as they continue to move forward. I am very excited about the opportunity I have been given at Trinity Christian, and I am looking forward to getting started with the team.”
Trinity Christian, an NAIA institution and member of the Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference (CCAC), is located in Palos Heights, Illinois. The Trolls posted a 2-16 record last season, which included a 1-11 mark in the CCAC.
Salley has served in all facets of the SAU program from game strategy, recruiting and fitness and conditioning. Over the past three years, he helped guide Spring Arbor to a 39-20-9 record, including a 15-8-4 mark in the Crossroads League. The Cougars also advanced to the championship match of the Crossroads League Tournament during that span, as well as made two other appearances in the tournament semifinals.
Spring Arbor has also boasted one of the Crossroads League’s top defenses over the past few seasons and Salley has played an integral part. In 2015, the Cougars ranked second in the conference conceding just 18 goals all season while registering seven shutouts.
“I am very proud of Eric, and excited for his opportunity to build his own program,” said Nathan Miller. “I am very grateful to all of his hard work, dedication, and love of the program players. Eric is highly deserving of this position, and I look forward to watching him build a reputable program and team at Trinity. Eric played a very important part in the SAU soccer program and we are thrilled for the new challenge in his life.”
A West Liberty, Ohio native, Salley played collegiately at Taylor University. He was a four-year student-athlete and was a two-time captain of the men’s soccer team. The 2011 team finished with a 19-2-1 record and made the program’s first appearance in the NAIA national tournament.