Heinrichs leaves Anteaters

IRVINE — When April Heinrichs arrived at UC Irvine she said she would try to pump life into the Anteaters’ women’s soccer program. But after Monday, that program is now left looking for a new coach.

Heinrichs resigned as UC Irvine head women’s soccer coach to accept a position with the United States Olympic Committee, UCI Athletic Director Bob Chichester said Monday.

Heinrichs will take the newly created position of Team Leader of Team and Technical Sports in the USOC’s Sports Performance Service Department.

“The timing of leaving UCI is terrible and I didn’t fulfill my commitment, but the USOC job allows me to transition into the next phase of my career,” Heinrichs said in a press release. “The decision is indicative of me and not a reflection of UC Irvine. The administration and Bob Chichester have been great to work with and the support services have been what are needed to succeed at UC Irvine. I fully believe in the goals that I created with the team and believe they have seen what they need to do to reach those goals.”

Heinrichs coached the Anteaters for one season, coming to the school in January 2006, and led the team to a 3-13-1 record. UCI was 2-13-1 prior to Heinrichs’ arrival.

She was the U.S. Women’s Soccer National team coach from 2000-05.

“We have very much appreciated the opportunity to have worked with April and to have her be a part of the women’s soccer program here at UCI,” Chichester said in a press release. “We are disappointed and regret that she is leaving the program; however, based on her experience with the Olympic and U.S. National teams, it can be understood why the U.S. Olympic Committee has sought her out to contribute to the USOC’s efforts in support of our national teams.

“We wish April all the best in her future personal and professional endeavors and will seek to build upon the things that she had begun to put in place to enhance our program. We will move forward in identifying the next head coach as soon as possible.”