Washington, D.C. – Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16), Co-Chair of the Congressional Soccer Caucus, went to the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives to honor Bradley Soccer Coach Jim DeRose on his retirement after 28 successful seasons of coaching. DeRose, who announced his retirement this month, was named the Soccer America Coach of the Year in 2007 and led Bradley Soccer to seven NCAA Tournament appearances, the highest for any coach in Bradley Athletics history.
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You can view Rep. LaHood's remarks HERE. LaHood's remarks as prepared can be read below.
I rise today to honor and congratulate Jim DeRose on his retirement as Bradley University’s Men’s Soccer Coach after 28 successful seasons.
Beginning his career in 1996 at the age of 28 and as the youngest coach in NCAA Division I men’s soccer, Jim quickly emerged as a dominant figure in the soccer community. Under Jim’s leadership, Bradley’s soccer program reached new heights and resulted in a 2007 run to the NCAA Elite Eight, where Jim was chosen as the Soccer America National Coach of the Year. During his tenure as head coach, Bradley held a 267-227-66 record with seven NCAA tournament appearances, the highest for any coach in Bradley University Athletics history. Jim finishes his career as the second-winningest coach in Missouri Valley Conference soccer history and coached the only four-year all-Americans in MVC men’s soccer history.
In addition to his accomplishments on the pitch, the accomplishments of his players in the classroom and post-graduation are a testament to his ability to grow his players into successful young men.
Jim has been an integral part of growing the game of soccer throughout central Illinois and his legacy will last for years to come. It is my privilege to congratulate Jim DeRose on his retirement after 28 years with Bradley University Men’s Soccer and wish him, his wife Robin, and his two children, Raleigh and J.R., all the best.
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