Anson Dorrance has announced his retirement as head coach of the University of North Carolina (UNC) women's soccer program after an illustrious 45-season career.

Dorrance is recognized as the most successful college Division I head coach of all time, having led his teams to 21 NCAA championships, the highest in any Division I sport.

During his tenure, he achieved a remarkable total of 22 national championships, including an unprecedented nine consecutive NCAA titles from 1986 to 1994.

His impressive coaching record stands at 934 wins, 88 losses, and 53 ties, showcasing his dominance in women's soccer since he began coaching the team in 1979.

UNC Chancellor Lee Roberts praised Dorrance as one of the greatest collegiate coaches in any sport, highlighting his role in training many of the best players in U.S. women's soccer history.

In addition to his success at UNC, Dorrance served as head coach of the U.S. women's national team from 1986 to 1994, leading them to victory in the inaugural Women's World Cup in 1991.

Dorrance announced his retirement due to a lack of energy to fully commit to the upcoming season, emphasizing his respect for the team's legacy.

Following his retirement, associate head coach Damon Nahas will serve as the interim head coach while a national search for Dorrance's replacement is conducted.

Director of Athletics Bubba Cunningham praised Dorrance as a legendary figure in soccer, noting the profound impact he has had on women's sports.

Under Dorrance's leadership, the UNC women's soccer program has won more NCAA titles than any other women's team, with 21 championships, the most for any women's team in NCAA history.

Dorrance holds records for the most wins, NCAA titles, and NCAA tournament wins in women's soccer history, with the Tar Heels ranked for 513 consecutive weeks entering the 2024 season.