UNC Women's Soccer HC Anson Dorrance Retires; Won 21 NCAA Titles in 45 Seasons

The University of North Carolina announced on Sunday that legendary women's soccer head coach Anson Dorrance—who led the Tar Heels to 21 national titles—is retiring this offseason.

He released the following statement regarding the decision:

"As many of you know I modeled our program after Dean Smith's basketball program, and retiring at this time is a credit to his thinking, as well. He would re-evaluate his tenure, not after the season, but after he had time to recharge his batteries prior to the next season. When he didn't, he retired. After last season I initially was excited about the chance to bolster our roster, which we most certainly have done, but as preseason training camp went on, I realized I didn't have the same energy it takes to give 100 percent to this year's team. The players and staff, the university, Carolina athletics and our great fans deserve more, and the respect I have for the amazing legacy the current and former players have built led me to make this decision at this time."

Dorrance, 73, took over as the UNC women's coach in 1979 and promptly led them to a 934-88-53 record in 45 seasons. He also had a stint as the men's soccer coach between 1977-88, winning 172 games and an ACC title.

But it was with the women's team where he became one of the sport's great coaches, leading them to 22 ACC tournament championships. His Tar Heels finished either first or tied for first during the ACC regular season 25 times. He never missed the NCAA tournament, winning 147 tournament games.

He holds the college women's soccer record for national championships, overall wins and NCAA tournament wins. He was inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame in 2008.

UNC athletic director Bubba Cunningham released the following statement on Sunday:

"Anson is an all-time soccer, coaching and Tar Heel legend. The numbers and accomplishments are staggering and will be hard for any coach or program to replicate or exceed. His impact on the development and growth of women's sports across the country and around the world has been profound. Not only did he elevate women's sports in the NCAA, but he also led the early dominance of the United States Women's National Team. With Anson at the helm numerous Tar Heels raised trophies in the World Cup and later in the Olympics."

Outside of North Carolina, Dorrance served as the head coach of the USWNT between 1986-94, leading the Americans to the inaugural Women's World Cup title in 1991.