Men's Soccer Adds Two To Coaching Staff
8/17/2011 12:00:00 AM | Men's Soccer
BUFFALO, NY – Interim head coach Dave Hesch has announced the addition of Jim Hesch and Kieron Gradwell to his coaching staff for the upcoming 2011 season. Gradwell was a former member of the men's soccer team, while Jim Hesch comes to UB following a distinguished career as the head coach at Canisius.
Jim Hesch spent 10 years as the head coach at Canisius, becoming the school's all-time wins leader in 2007. The brother of interim coach Dave Hesch, Jim coached a total of five players to the All-MAAC Team for a total of nine selections, including Alan McGreal, the first four-time selection in program history at Canisius.
As a collegiate player, Jim Hesch won a national championship with Southern Connecticut University in 1990 before transferring to Cortland State, where he played from 1991-93 and was named a first-team All-American. He earned his bachelor's degree in physical education in 1994.
"I am excited to add Jim to our staff and look forward to working with him and the contribution he will make to the success of this soccer program," said Dave Hesch. "With experience playing at the professional level and 10 years coaching at the Division I collegiate level, I think Jim will excel in this position."
Gradwell, who will be a volunteer assistant, played two seasons for the Bulls after transferring from Cincinnati after his sophomore season. Gradwell started all 18 games as a senior and off the field was the Student-Athlete Advisory Council's president. During his junior season, he played in 14 games, finishing with five points, including his only goal in a UB uniform.
"I think Kieron is a great compliment to me in the fact that he knows Buffalo Soccer and bleeds blue," said Hesch. "He's going to be a huge help to our program not only long term but also short term with his knowledge of the game, our players, Buffalo as a school, and the Mid-American Conference."
The Bulls begin the season on Friday, Aug. 26 at St. Bonaventure.
