Pitt hires Jay Vidovich as new men’s soccer coach

Pitt Athletic Director Scott Barnes has hired Jay Vidovich as the next men’s soccer coach, the University announced Friday.

Vidovich comes from a lengthy coaching background, having most recently helmed the Portland Timbers 2 in the United Soccer League for one season. Prior to that, Vidovich spent 21 seasons coaching at Wake Forest, where he led the team to the 2007 NCAA championship.

Vidovich replaces Joe Luxbacher, who retired after 32 seasons as Pitt’s head coach on Nov. 3.

“I’m thrilled to be back in the ACC leading a men’s soccer program with a rich history and such tremendous potential,” Vidovich said in a release. “From my very first phone conversation [with Barnes], I could sense the energy and enthusiasm behind the new leadership and vision at Pitt and I am honored to be a part of this impressive team of people”

Barnes said in a release that Vidovich’s track record and recruiting ability made the hire an easy decision.

“He is one of the most successful Power Five coaches in the country and has a proven ability to win and recruit at a national championship level,” Barnes said. “He is greatly respected by the soccer community.”

Vidovich won five ACC Coach of the Year awards between 2002-09 and two NSCAA National Coach of the Year awards, in 2007 and 2008. In 2008, he received the Walt Chyzowych Award for lifetime contributions within the sport.

Vidovich’s recruiting prowess has shown at the next level, as 35 of his former players moved on to professional leagues between 2002-14.

In his time at Wake Forest, Vidovich held a 272-121-50 career record and led the Demon Deacons to the NCAA Tournament in 13 of his final 14 seasons there.

“It is certainly an exciting time to be a Pitt Panther,” Vidovich said. “I would like to thank Scott Barnes and the search committee for providing me and my family with this opportunity and for welcoming us so warmly to this great city.”