Two-time NAIA National Coach of the Year Alex Nichols announced Friday he would step down as the head men’s soccer coach of Central Methodist to pursue other coaching opportunities.

Nichols has led CMU for the past nine seasons, which includes back-to-back national titles. 

“To say Coach Nichols has been an instrumental part of helping CMU become one of the premiere athletic programs in the NAIA is an understatement,” said CMU Director of Athletics Jeff Sherman. “What Coach Nichols has accomplished over his career is incredible. Winning back-to-back NAIA National Championships in 2018 and 2019, followed with two additional trips to the NAIA National Semifinals, is an amazing feat.”

During his nine seasons on the sidelines, Nichols has built a soccer power at Central, having compiled a 153-30-13 overall record, one of the best across all divisions of collegiate soccer in the country.

“I will forever be grateful for all of my student-athletes who created the success we have had,” said Nichols. “It’s beyond rare to have a program that loses just seven games in five years. It takes so many players to achieve that success.”

He highlighted his time at CMU by leading the Eagles to back-to-back NAIA National Championships in 2018 and 2019. He was named the NAIA National Coach of the Year for his efforts in each of those championships.

“Myself along with my assistants, past and present, will forever be grateful for the special talents and people who we have been fortunate to work with,” said Nichols.

Nichols has led Central to four straight Heart Regular Season and Tournament Championships in the last four seasons. Additionally, the Eagles made four-straight NAIA National Tournament Semifinal appearances from 2018 to 2021.

The Eagles have also been a force on their home field, having won 46 consecutive games. Altogether, Nichols has coached 56 Heart All-Conference selections, 27 NAIA All-Americans, and the 2018 NAIA National Player of the Year during his time with CMU.

Most recently, Nichols was enshrined as a member of the Central Methodist Athletics Hairston Hall of Fame on January 28.

“We wish Alex continued success with his new challenge and journey. His passion and commitment to the success of our student-athletes on and off the field are second to none. We thank him for elevating expectations in the pursuit of championships.”

Sherman expects there to be intense interest in the position, and a national search for the next head coach will begin immediately.