SPOKANE, Wash. – After 16 years at Whitworth as a head coach, assistant coach, student and player, Bryan Olson is leaving the school to take the next step in his life.

Olson has resigned as the head coach of the women's soccer team to pursue missionary opportunities in Nepal.

"There was certainly a part of me that did not think this day of stepping away from Whitworth would ever come," Olson reflected. "I have been shaped mightily during my time here and I have nothing but love for the people, both present and past, who have made this place so special. Thank you to everyone who has been a part of my journey at Whitworth!"

Olson served six seasons leading the women's soccer program.  His record was 55-43-11 and he guided the Pirates to third place finishes in 2017 and 2018.

"Over the past six years, Bryan has embodied the Whitworth mission and poured his heart and soul into his teams and coaches," said Tim Demant, Whitworth's Director of Athletics.  "His commitment, care, and intentionality not only made his student-athletes better players, but also helped them grow in all areas of their lives. He will be missed, but I know that God has amazing things in store for him as he takes this next leap of faith."

Originally from Missoula, Montana, Olson was a standout player for the Pirates from 2006 – 2009.  He was a four-year starter on defense and earned First Team All-Northwest Conference and Second Team All-Region recognition as a senior.  Following graduation, Olson was the top assistant coach for the Whitworth men's soccer team for six seasons.  His title was elevated to Associate Head Coach ahead of the 2015 season.  Over that time the Pirate men's team posted a record of 66-17-12 and made the NCAA Division III Tournament three times (2012, 2014 and 2015).

Olson will complete his duties at Whitworth through the end of January before pursuing life in Nepal in the spring.

Whitworth is in the process of opening the search for a new women's soccer coach.  The Pirates return several key pieces from 2021, when the team finished 11-6-3.

"A national search has already begun to select the next head coach to lead the Whitworth women's soccer program, a team prepared to take the next step in becoming a championship team," Demant said.