MARIETTA, Ohio — Stephen Rose has been appointed Marietta's College's interim head men's soccer coach for the 2010 season. Rose becomes the 11th head coach in the 42-year history of the program and replaces Patrick Holguin after 12 seasons with the Pioneers.

Athletics Director Larry Hiser made the announcement Monday (Jan. 11) morning.

"Steve's dedication to the program over the last 5 years warrants this promotion," Hiser said. "All our coaches are excited to assist him and watch as the men's soccer team flourishes. The expectations of the College will remain high, and I'm sure he will be up the the challenge."

Rose had been an assistant coach with Marietta's men's and women's programs for the last 5 seasons and a full-time member of the athletics department since 2007. During his time with the Pioneers, he has been instrumental in the success of both squads. Rose has not only helped coordinate the play on the field and training off it but also the recruitment of the programs' student-athletes.

"I would like to thank Mr. Hiser for the opportunity of becoming the head coach here at Marietta," Rose. "Marietta is my hometown, which makes this extremely special to me. I am looking forward to working with our returning players as we prepare for a successful season in 2010."

A graduate of Marietta High School, Rose returned to his hometown after attending Walsh University where he received his undergraduate degree in Communications. He then completed his Master of Arts in Liberal Learning from Marietta College in 2007. Rose was a four-year starter for the Cavaliers and garnered All-American Mideast Conference (AMC) honors twice. He also played basketball at Walsh for one season.

Rose earned his National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) Advanced National Diploma in the summer of 2009. Rose also completed his NSCAA National Diploma in 2008 and his United States Soccer Federation (USSF) “D” license in 2006. An alum of the local River Valley Soccer Club, Rose remains active in that organization as well as in the West Virginia Olympic Development Program. In 2009, he coached the RVSC's U-17 Boys team to State Championship and a Region I appearance. Rose also coordinates all of the local youth soccer tournaments and camps at Marietta College.

The Pioneers are scheduled to open the 2010 season against Westminster (Pa.) College Sept. 4 during the annual Marietta Soccer Classic. [2010 Schedule]