CHARLOTTE, N.C. (Wednesday, November 8, 2006) -- John Tart, who is the winningest coach in Charlotte history, stepped down yesterday after 12 years with the 49ers.
Tart was 117-92-28 (.553) at the North Carolina school, where he moved following 13 years at Furman, his alma mater. Tart's overall record over 25 years as a head coach was 254-184-49 (.572).
"I am truly grateful to have coached at UNC-Charlotte," said Tart, 47, who will remain with the team through the end of the month and will then assume fund-raising responsibilities with the 49ers Athletic Foundation. "There have been many great moments throughout this time. . . Mostly, I appreciate the student-athletes who played in our program. I wish the soccer program continued success."
Tart guided Charlotte to two NCAA tournaments, including in 1996 when the 49ers advanced to the national semifinals, earning him Conference USA "Coach of the Year: honors. He was named C-USA "Co-Coach of the Decade" in 2004.
Along with a record of 137-92-21 (.590), Tart led Furman to 10 Southern Conference titles, following a four-year playing career with the Palladins. He was named South Region "Coach of the Year" twice and Southern Conference "Coach of the Year" four times.
Fifteen of Tart's players have played professionally, including goalkeeper Jon Busch (Columbus Crew) and midfielder Floyd Franks (Chicago Fire), who are currently in Major League Soccer. Charlotte director of athletics Judy Rose promised a national search for Tart's replacement.
"He's been a very well-respected member of our coaching family and we are pleased that he will continue to be a part of the 49ers for the near future, albeit in a different role," she said. "At the same time, we plan to take this opportunity to continue to elevate our men's soccer program."