UNIVERSITY CENTER, Mich. ­– Saginaw Valley State University women's soccer head coach Michael O'Neill has announced his resignation after eight seasons with the Cardinals to accept the women's soccer head coaching position at NCAA DI Northern Illinois University, a member of the Mid-American Conference.

"We are grateful to have had Coach O'Neill leading our women's soccer program and guiding our Student-Athletes these past eight years," SVSU Director of Athletics John Decker said. "Michael put our teams in position to compete at the very highest levels of Division 2, including last season's Sweet Sixteen appearance. He has earned the opportunity to coach in Division 1. While we shall miss Michael, we wish him all the best as he undertakes a new challenge at Northern Illinois."

O'Neill and the Cardinals are coming off an outstanding season, that saw SVSU break numerous school records, including tying the school record for wins in a season with 14. O'Neill guided the Cardinals to the NCAA DII Midwest Regional final for the first time in program history and has the team set up for years of success going forward.

Over his eight seasons with the Cardinals, O'Neill has compiled a record of 77-52-13, including six campaigns of 10 or more wins and three NCAA National Tournament appearances. He has coached 29 All-GLIAC honorees for the Cardinals.

"I want to thank the administration here at SVSU for giving me the opportunity eight years ago to become head coach and lead this program," O'Neill said. "I also want to thank all of those in the SVSU campus community. They have all made such a huge impact on the program."

"To the families and, most importantly, all the players who I have had the honor of working with over the years, you truly have made SVSU a special place for me and played a huge role in building the program to where it is today. My time with the current team and staff at SVSU is one that I will cherish for the rest of my life. We created such a strong culture that was built on trust, hard work, and consequently strong relationships. The girls are winners in everything they do, and I know they will continue to do great things both on and off the field. I am excited for the new opportunity and challenges ahead as I take this next step in my career but Marissa, Ava, and I will miss the people dearly."

Following the departure of Coach O'Neill, Assistant Coach Tyler Channell, an assistant with the Cardinals for six seasons, will serve as the Interim Head Coach. SVSU will conduct a national search for the fourth head coach in program history.