Andrew Loughnane has been named head men's soccer coach at Misericordia University, Chuck Edkins, Director of Athletics, has announced.

Loughnane becomes just the second full-time coach in the program's history and replaces Edkins, who stepped down after 25 seasons to concentrate on his duties as AD.

"I'm thrilled to welcome Andy to Misericordia University and in particular our men's soccer program," said Edkins.  "The men's soccer team obviously is special to me and I can't think of anyone that I'd rather hand the reins to than Andy.  I believe he will continue the winning tradition at Misericordia and will take us to the next level."

A graduate of Caldwell (NJ) University, Loughnane has spent the last five seasons as the assistant coach at the University of Scranton where he helped the Royals to a 52-27-14 record and two NCAA Tournament appearances.

He was a two-time team captain at Caldwell and earned a bachelor's degree in chemistry and earned his master's in biochemistry from Scranton.

"I'm excited and humbled to be the next men's soccer coach at Misericordia University," said Loughnane.  "This is a fantastic opportunity for me to step into a quality program with a winning tradition.  I'm excited and eager to get started."

Edkins was promoted to Director of Athletics in August after 11 years as associate director.

"Chuck's efforts to provide the best possible experience to our student-athletes are laudable and I am confident that our students, families and the entire Misericordia University community will benefit from his commitment and leadership," said Dr. Tom Botzman, Misericordia President.

Edkins owns a career record of 283-159-35 and led the Cougars to nine conference championships, two ECAC South titles and six NCAA Tournament berths.

In their first seven seasons in the MAC Freedom Conference, the Cougars captured four men's soccer titles (2008, 2009, 2011 and 2012).

Previously, Misericordia won three Pennsylvania Athletic Conference championships under Edkins and made 10 trips to the PAC finals - more than any other school.  The 2000 PAC championship squad became the first team in Misericordia history to earn an NCAA Championships bid.

Edkins also guided the Cougars to seven appearances in the ECAC championships.   Misericordia won the ECAC South title in 2002 and 2014 and has finished second twice.

A four-time PAC Coach of the Year recipient, Edkins was the MAC Freedom Coach of the Year in 2008.