Santa Clara gives Smith a seven-year deal

• by Soccer America , Jun 29, 2007

Santa Clara gave women's coach Jerry Smith a new seven-year deal, extending his contract through the 2013 season.

Smith, 45, signed the seven-year agreement after leading the Broncos their ninth West Coast Conference title and collecting WCC Coach of the Year honors for the seventh time in his career. Over the course of his 20 years, Smith has led the Broncos to one national title (2001), one national runner-up finish (2002), 10 College Cup appearances, and 18 consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances. He has a record of 326-84-27.

"I'm looking forward to the many challenges that lie ahead for the program," Smith continued. "In addition to putting together the best
staff in the country, I'm hoping to building a new soccer facility and win another national championship for the university."

Smith began his coaching career at his alma mater, Homestead High School in Sunnyvale, Calif., where his boys teams compiled a 69-29-12 record in seven seasons. Smith also served as the assistant coach for Foothill College's men's team from and was Foothill's head women's coach in 1986.

He is married to former U.S. national team star Brandi Chastain.