LMU women's soccer proudly welcomes Stephen Merriwether to its coaching staff for the upcoming 2024 season. With an illustrious career spanning over 13 years, Merriwether brings a wealth of expertise in coaching and player development.
Merriwether and Lions head coach
Chris Chamides have history together. Not only did Chamides and Merriwether coach together during Chamides's tenure at Cal State LA, Merriwether played for Chamides as a member of the Golden Eagles in 2007. The pair oversaw a sustained period of success that included two conference championships and three trips to the NCAA Tournament.
"We are thrilled to add Stephen to our coaching staff. Stephen is a USSF A-Licensed coach with a goalkeeping background. He played for me in the past and has coached with me on staff before as well." said Chamides. "He developed one of our previous goalkeepers into a first team All-American. He knows his stuff and is a quality individual. Stephen understands our standards and ways of working. We look forward to collaborating with him. Welcome to The Bluff Stephen!"
The All-American that Chamides mentioned was former Golden Eagles goalkeeper Mike Beigarten. Beigarten and the defense set a school record in 2013, only allowing 12 goals before following it up with another record-breaking season of 9 goals allowed in 2014.
Merriwether's coaching journey reflects his commitment to excellence and player growth across various levels of competition. Holding a BA in Communications from California State University, Los Angeles, Merriwether's coaching credentials include a USSF National A Coaching License and an NSCAA GK Coaching License. Coach Chamides remarked on how difficult it is to find a person that is a hybrid in those roles and mentioned he will be a huge asset moving forward.
His collegiate coaching experience notably includes roles as the Women's Assistant Coach at Marymount California University, and the Men's Assistant Coach at CSU, Los Angeles. During his tenure at Marymount, Merriwether contributed to a pair of firsts for the Mariners: first time in the round of 32 and first time in the round of 20.
Beyond collegiate coaching, Merriwether has made significant contributions to high school and club soccer. As the Head Varsity Soccer Coach at Peninsula High School he transformed the program, overseeing all aspects of its success, including scheduling, training, and budget management.
Merriwether's dedication extends to club soccer, where he has served as the Director of Operations and GK Director at Sand and Surf Soccer Club and held coaching positions at FRAM Soccer Club and Exiles Soccer Club.
Furthermore, Merriwether's commitment to education is evident through his teaching experience at Vista Grande Elementary School, where he imparted computer and physical education skills to elementary students.
In his new role, Merriwether will undoubtedly enrich the coaching staff at LMU, bringing his extensive expertise to foster player development and uphold the organization's standards of excellence.
