TURLOCK — Head Men's soccer coach Dana Taylor announced today that Paul Lekics, his assistant coach has stepped down.  Lekics has been with the Warrior's for two seasons, and has been instrumental in their success.  Lekics, who will return to the midwest, has accepted a coaching position with the FCX Soccer Club in Barrington, Ill.

“I am thankful for all the time and energy Paul has put into this program. In two very short years he helped move the Cal State Stanislaus program into the top echelon of Division II soccer,” Taylor said.

During his time at Cal State Stanislaus, Lekics assisted Taylor as they directed the Warriors to two consecutive winning seasons averaging 10.5 wins per year. Prior to their arrival, the Warriors were averaging 4.5 wins per year with one winning season in 2006.

Lekics was a four-year starter at Creighton from 1992-96, trained with the under-23 US national team, played professionally in Europe, and participated in two Olympic sports festivals in his career.

“Paul established himself as a top player in the college and pro ranks and it has been exciting to see him grow as a coach,” Taylor added. “He now has an opportunity to coach soccer back in his hometown, in the Chicago area.

“I will always be indebted to Paul for his grass roots effort in helping build the strong foundation we have here at Cal State Stanislaus.”

A national search for a new men's soccer assistant coach is currently in progress.  Coach Taylor will be making an announcement in the near future naming his new assistant coach.  The Warriors begin summer practices in August in preparation for the upcoming 2011 season.