Nov 10, 2016
VANCOUVER, BC – After 16 years at the helm of the women’s soccer program at Langara College, coach Ryan Birt has stepped down. Birt joined the Falcons in 2001, and leaves as the longest serving women’s soccer coach in school history.
“Ryan has brought a tremendous amount of success to the women’s program. His ability to recruit and retain high level talent allowed the women’s program to remain near the top of the Pacific Western Athletics Association (PACWEST) for the duration of his tenure at the College,” said Jake McCallum, Director, Athletics & Intramurals. “His contribution to our program is second to none, and his impact both on and off the pitch is truly remarkable.”
Birt lead the Falcons to 113 wins, 59 losses and 37 ties, winning three Canadian Colleges Athletic Association (CCAA) National Championships (05-06, 06-07, 08-09) and three PACWEST Provincial Championships (05-06, 06-07, 08-09). He was named the CCAA Coach of the Year in 07-08 and British Columbia Colleges’ Athletic Association (BCCAA) Coach of the Year in 04-05, 05-06, 06-07, and 07-08. Most recently, the Falcons finished 6-4-2 in conference play this past season.
"I would like to thank Langara College and specifically the Athletics Department for the opportunity they have provided me over my 16 years as the head coach of the women's soccer program,” said Birt. “I have been extremely fortunate to have worked with many talented athletes, creative and dedicated coaches, as well as supportive administrative staff.”
“The relationships forged with both players and coaches are what I loved the most about coaching at Langara,” Birt added. “However, I feel the time is right for me to step down in order to be able to spend more time with my family as well as to pursue some exciting career opportunities.”
Added McCallum: “Langara has been privileged to have had someone as dedicated and committed as Ryan leading the program for the last sixteen years. His passion for the sport of soccer, his professional approach, and his leadership has been a huge asset over his time at the College and we wish Ryan well in future endeavours.”
About Langara
Located in beautiful Vancouver, B.C., Canada, Langara College provides University, Career, and Continuing Studies education to more than 21,000 students annually. With more than 1,700 courses and 130 programs, Langara’s expansive academic breadth and depth allows students of all ages, backgrounds, and life stages to choose their own educational path. Langara is also known as house of teachings, a name given to it by the Musqueam people on whose unceded traditional territory the College is located.
Learn more.
Jake McCallum
Director, Athletics & Intramurals
Langara College
604.323.5421
jmccallum@langara.ca
