ERIE, Pa. -- Mercyhurst University Director of Athletics Brad Davis announced the hiring of Ryan Osborne as the next head coach of the Laker men's soccer team. 

"I am absolutely delighted to be the next head men's soccer coach at Mercyhurst University," Osborne said. "I would like to thank Brad Davis, Sue Sweeney and the rest of the search committee for the faith they have placed in me. I would also like to thank all coaches I have worked with previously that have prepared me for this opportunity. I am excited to get to work and create a culture of excellence to add to Mercyhurst's storied tradition of success." 

Most recently, Osborne has served as the Associate Head Men's Soccer Coach at Notre Dame College in Ohio. In his time with the Falcons the program has recorded 47 wins and finished with a No. 23 national ranking in 2018. 

"Ryan will be an outstanding leader for our student-athletes and program," said Davis. "He brings a passion and commitment to the student-athlete experience and a new energy to our men's soccer program." 

Prior to his time with Notre Dame, Osborne served as the assistant coach for Marrietta College. The Pioneers reached the Ohio Athletic Conference postseason in two of his three seasons with the team.  

Osborne's coaching career started as a graduate assistant at Division II powerhouse University of Charleston.  

Osborne also has experience as head coach with the Cleveland SC of the National Premier Soccer League. He was named the Midwest East Region Coach of the Year in 2019 after an 8-2 regular season.  

"I want to thank Sue Sweeney and the search committee for their hard work over the last two months," Davis continued. "I enjoyed the dedication shared by the Mercyhurst men's soccer alumni and their passion for the program. Finally, I want to thank John Melody for his leadership and guidance throughout this process." 

Austin Solomon who has been on the staff at Mercyhurst for seven years will remain in his role as Associate Head Coach with the program. 

What they are saying: 
"I am very much looking forward to the next chapter of Mercyhurst Men's Soccer. Ryan has all the attributes to take the program in the right direction and I believe I speak for all Soccer Alumni in welcoming him to Mercyhurst and supporting him as he works to bring the program back to National prominence." 
-John Melody '90, Men's Soccer Alumnus & Former Men's Soccer Coach 

"Ryan has been a first class coach and person since joining us here at Notre Dame College. He has been a huge reason for the recent successes we have had on and off the field, and I know that his attention to detail and work ethic will transfer over to Mercyhurst University. I will miss working with Ryan greatly, but I am excited to see his new transition and I know he will be successful. I would like to thank him for his work at Notre Dame College and his friendship." 
-Carl Nolan, Head Men's Soccer Coach Notre Dame College 
 
"I congratulate Mercyhurst on this excellent hire. I had the privilege of having Coach Ozzy as an assistant for two seasons here at Marietta. He is the consummate pro. He is passionate, driven and cares immensely about his players. He understands recruiting and how to translate that to success on the field. I look forward to following his teams." 
 -Joseph Bergin, Head Men's Soccer Coach Marietta College 
 
"I think Ozzy is a fantastic hire for Mercyhurst.  He is an excellent up and coming young coach, who will be able to take Mercyhurst to the next level.  He is a diligent worker, and always has his finger on the pulse of the recruiting scene. I know Ozzy will make the Mercyhurst, its alumni base and the city of Erie proud." 
-Chris Grassie, Head Men's Soccer Coach Marshall University