KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Tennessee Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics Danny White announced Monday that the soccer program is changing leadership after he relieved head coach Joe Kirt of his duties. Jonathan Morgan will serve as interim head coach, and a nationwide search for the next head coach begins immediately.
"Joe is a tremendous person whose dedication and passion have left a lasting impact on Tennessee soccer, both during his years as an assistant and as our head coach," White said. "This decision was not made lightly, and it in no way reflects on Joe's character or his unwavering commitment to our student-athletes."
White said the university will seek input from the soccer student-athletes before it begins identifying the next head coach. He also explained the timing: "While we remain in contention for postseason play, I felt it was in the best interests of everyone involved to make this change now so we can begin our search."
Kirt spent 20 seasons at Tennessee as an assistant and head coach. During that time the Lady Vols won two SEC Tournament championships, three SEC Eastern Division championships and made 11 NCAA Tournament appearances. He finished with a 48-29-17 record in five seasons as head coach.
As an assistant, Kirt worked on goalkeeper development, technical and functional development for field players and building the program's game model. Tennessee had 10 All-Americans and 44 All-SEC selections during his time on staff.
Kirt thanked White in a statement. "It's been an incredible privilege to share in our program's tremendous success over the last 20 years," he said. "I'm grateful to have influenced the truly amazing women who have embodied the Volunteer spirit and will always be Lady Vols! Tennessee will always remain a special place in my heart."
The announcement came on the day Tennessee freshman Emerson Moore was named SEC Offensive Player of the Week after two goals in a 3-1 win over Oklahoma in the regular-season finale. The Lady Vols narrowly missed the SEC Tournament, and they will find out on Nov. 16, at the NCAA Tournament Selection Show, whether the season continues.