KEARNEY, NE — Less than two months after taking over as Nebraska-Kearney women’s soccer coach, Neil Piper is stepping down.

The former Texas A&M Commerce coach was announced as the fourth head coach in program history at a press conference on February 17. He cited unforeseen family reasons for the sudden departure.

“I really enjoyed my time here and was excited at the thought of turning this program around,” Piper said in a news release. “Marc Bauer and the athletic administration has shown great support and the student-athletes are hungry to win. I have no doubt the soccer program is heading in the right direction and will be successful very soon.”

Piper held practices and led the Lopers to an exhibition win on Sunday. The team is scheduled to compete in two more scrimmages this spring, with the next set for April 9.

UNK says a new head coach has has been identified and an announcement is forthcoming.

"The hiring committee convened immediately after learning about Coach Piper's decision. This time, we had to turn our attention to finding a new women's soccer coach with a greater sense of urgency,” Athletic Director Marc Bauer said. “Of the vast pool of candidates from the initial search, we are confident that we found a new coach. Upon completing the hiring process, we look forward to making an announcement later this week.”

Bauer expressed understanding about Piper’s resignation.

“We all know how life can change instantly, and the urgency of these unforeseen circumstances has caught us all off guard,” Bauer said. “Coach Piper addressed the team Monday afternoon, sharing a tough yet important decision to do what's in the best interest of his family."

The Loper women’s soccer program began in 2009. Piper replaced Chloe Roberts, who was head coach the past five years. The Lopers were 2-16 in 2021.

"The past four months have been a rollercoaster of emotions for everyone involved with our soccer program. However, we have and will continue to stay committed to supporting our student-athlete needs, even though we were not expecting this turn of events. Our staff and administration are proud of the team's resilience and hard work, and we plan to be along their side throughout this process," Bauer said.

The 2022 season begins at home on Friday, August 26, vs. Winona (Minn.) State.