[SETON HALL] Former Seton Hall star Gerson Echeverry is returning to his alma mater to take charge of the Pirates' men's program following the retirement of long-time coach Manfred Schellscheidt.

Echeverry, a 1994 Seton Hall graduate and former SHU assistant coach, spent the last three years as an assistant coach for the U.S. under-17 national team at its residency program in Bradenton, Fla. He served as the top assistant coach for the Seton Hall men's program, posting an overall record of 47-38-12 during his tenure.

Echeverry ranks fourth in school history with 114 points, third with 32 assists and sixth with 41 goals. His 1991 campaign still ranks as one of the best single-season performances in program history. He finished third in the nation with 52 points while leading the Pirates to the Big East Championship.

Following his collegiate career, Echeverry played professionally in Colombia as well as with the Metro Stars and D.C. United of Major League Soccer.

"I'm extremely excited to be coming back home to Seton Hall," said Echeverry. "As a former student athlete and coach, it means so much to be given the opportunity to lead a program that has meant so much to me. I'm looking forward to getting to work and continuing the outstanding tradition of men's soccer at Seton Hall."