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Vicksburg’s Kevin Larry Named Head Soccer Coach at Chicago State

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Kevin Larry

Story from Chicago State:
CHICAGO – Chicago State University is excited to announce the hiring of Kevin Larry as the new head women’s soccer Coach. Affectionately known in the soccer community as “THE” Kevin brings a wealth of coaching experience, innovative play, strategic knowledge, and a deep passion for creating culture to the Cougars.

As the new head coach at Chicago State University, Kevin is excited to bring his wealth of knowledge, experience, infectious personality and mentorship to the Cougars. His proven track record of building strong, competitive teams, along with his passion for developing players both on and off the field, will be a valuable asset to Chicago State’s women’s soccer program.

“I am looking forward to the leadership and energy Kevin Larry will bring to Chicago State,” said Vice President and Director of Athletics Dr. Monique Carroll. “He is a respected coach and recruiter. His proven track record as a championship-level recruiter and steadfast committmetn to providing a first-class student-athlete experience  will serve as building blocks for Chicago State women’s soccer.”

A native of Vicksburg, Mississippi, Kevin has had an impressive coaching career that spans both collegiate and club soccer. After earning his degree from Shaw University, Kevin became an integral part of the staff that helped launch Shaw’s soccer program. His professional journey has been marked by a series of accomplishments that include an extensive background in match analysis at perennial powerhouse the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill under the guidance of legendary coach Anson Dorrance who he credits for inspiring him to pursue a career in college soccer. Kevin stated “Anson was instrumental in me taking the leap of faith to get here. He is a great motivator and eloquent with words. Not just the players he coaches but anyone he comes in contact with. I’m grateful and more importantly privileged to be able to call him a friend.”

“I am honored and excited to join Chicago State University as the head coach,” said Larry. “Dr. Carroll has given me a chance of a lifetime and I look forward to bringing the right spirit to the Southside, building a competitive and successful program, while also fostering an environment where our student-athletes can thrive, both in soccer and in life.”

Kevin is also a proud member of the Black Soccer Coaches Association and has worked as a coach at several prominent clubs, including Triangle Futbol Club, Brigade FC (semi-professional) and NCFC (formerly CASL) in North Carolina. His time in North Carolina allowed him to learn from and collaborate with influential coaches such as Andre Fortune, Gary Heale, Stephen Glass, Sam Stockley, and Jason Sisneros. He has also developed a close professional relationship with some other prominent coaches in the collegiate ranks. Keidane McAlpine who is the head coach at the University of Georgia, Scott Waddell of NYU, Jason Gross of Howard’s men’s program, Neil Mcguire at Cal Berkeley, Ro Ellison of Illnois Tech and Ted Flogaites are a few names that Kevin credits with offering insight and support throughout the course of his career.

Kevin has been instrumental in helping build a successful program at Jackson State University, where he recruited players who contributed to the team’s SWAC Championship in 2022. Kevin also enjoyed a successful three-year tenure at Alcorn State University, where he helped lead the team to a series of historic milestones, including setting a school record of six consecutive unbeaten games and securing the program’s first-ever non-conference road win. Additionally, he recruited Samara Nunn, the 2022 West Virginia Gatorade Player of the Year, who is now a standout player at Wright State University and arguably one of the best players to ever attend Alcorn.

What They Are Saying About Kevin Larry 

“Kevin is forward-thinking, adaptable, and an all-around great person who genuinely cares about the growth and success of his players. His ability to connect with people, combined with his innovative approach to the game, makes him an exceptional leader. Chicago State has made a fantastic choice in hiring Coach Kevin, and I have no doubt he will elevate the program and leave a lasting impact on the team and the university.” 
-Purdue Women’s Soccer Head Coach Richard Moodie 

“Chicago State made an excellent choice in hiring Kevin Larry as their head soccer coach. A man of integrity and dedication, Kevin’s commitment to the game and passion for the university will be evident in everything he does. He’s proven to be a force of competition in the SWAC, and I have no doubt he will bring the same energy and success to Chicago State.”
-Southern University Head Soccer Coach Jeremy Fontenot 

“Coach Kevin played a vital role in the development of me as a player. He was my toughest critic and my biggest cheerleader all in one breath. He’s the type of coach you wish you had met sooner, but are extremely grateful for the time you did have together. Not only was he a great coach, he was a great confidant, mentor and support system for me on the field and off. Anyone who has the pleasure to work with him consider themselves very lucky. He’s a true gem.”
-Former Jackson State Player and Graduate Olivia Cobb

“The three (3) years that Coach Larry led the Alcorn State team were the best teams in the programs history! I was very impressed with not only the quality of players he was able to recruit to a difficult location, but the style of play as well! His teams were organized and competed hard!” 
-Retired Alabama State Coach Jodie Smith 

“Kevin Larry exemplifies professionalism and brings exceptional program-building expertise to the table. His unwavering advocacy for the welfare and development of female student-athletes has been nothing short of inspiring. Kevin’s dedication to creating opportunities and empowering young athletes makes him an invaluable asset to any team or organization.”
 -Howard University Men’s Soccer Coach Jason Gross 

“Chicago State is well positioned going into the future by adding Kevin Larry as the new Head Coach. Having watched Kevin from afar working in the college game and working besides him I know he will have a tremendous effect taking Chicago State forward into the NEC.” 
-Farleigh Dickson Head Women’s Soccer Coach Eric Teepe 

“Coach Larry’s passion for the game and for people is extraordinary. His year’s of experience will no doubt provide the foundation for Chicago State to reach new heights.”
-University of Georgia Women’s Soccer Keidane McAlpine 

“Chicago State University has made an amazing hire in Kevin Larry. His energy, passion and aura will have such a positive impact on the players and program. I’m extremely excited for Kevin to take the reins at Chicago State and show what he can do. Best of luck The!” 
-NYU Women’s Soccer Head Coach Scott Waddell 


About Chicago State Athletics
Chicago State University sponsors 16 Division I intercollegiate athletic teams and competes in the Northeast Conference with the exception of men’s and women’s tennis who will compete in the Horizon League during the 2024-25 season. CSU’s athletic program includes over 150 student-athletes who compete in basketball, cross country, golf, soccer, tennis, indoor and outdoor track, triathlon and volleyball. 

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