Memphis names three-time MLS champ Mulrooney coach

• by Soccer America , Feb 27, 2014

[COLLEGE MEN] Richard Mulrooney, a part of three MLS Cup-winning teams (2001, 2003 and 2007) and a three-time MLS all-star selection (2002, 2004 and 2006), has been named the men's head coach at Memphis, replacing Richie Grant, who was named the head coach at CSU Bakersfield last month.

Mulrooney, a 12-year MLS veteran joined the Memphis coaching staff as an assistant in 2013.

"We were impressed with Richard throughout the interview process and he separated himself from a group of outstanding candidates for the position," Memphis Director of Athletics Tom Bowen said. "With his professional playing experience, he obviously knows what it takes to play at the highest level. Beyond his experience playing the game, we were captivated by his ability to coach and his plan to build a top-flight program at the University of Memphis."

Mulrooney, who had 14 caps for the USA, becomes the fourth head coach in the history of the program.

"I am ecstatic about being given this opportunity," Mulrooney said. "When Richie Grant brought me on to be a part of his staff last year, I knew it was the right move."

The Tigers have played at the Mike Rose Soccer Complex since 2001 but there plans to move to an on-campus facility in 2014. They were 9-8-1 in 2013, their first season in the inaugural American Athletic Conference.