McClements is only the third men's head coach in SMU's 35-year history, succeeding the program's founder, former U.S. international Jim Benedek, and Schellas Hyndman, who left after 24 years to become the head coach of MLS's FC Dallas.

McClements takes over the program he has served for seven years during two stints as an assistant coach. Before returning to SMU in 2006 as an assistant, he was head coach at Vanderbilt for four seasons, earning Missouri Valley Coach of the Year honors in 2005. He also has served as the head coach at Eastern Illinois and Baker (Kan.) University.

"This school has set a standard that breeds high expectations, and to be chosen to carry on that tradition is both flattering and an honor," said McClements, who played indoors in the NPSL and in the ASL.

McClements inherits one of the country's best programs. The Mustangs made the NCAA Tournament in 23 of 24 years under Hyndman.

SMU lost one of the nation's top midfielders when Brazilian-born Bruno Guarda turned pro in July. He was reunited with Hyndman at FC Dallas in a trade with Colorado, which won a special lottery to obtain the rights to Guarda the day before McClements was named SMU's new head coach.