Morgan Cathey is returning to Stanislaus State.
 
After seven seasons at Whitworth College, Cathey is coming back to Turlock to serve as the next head coach of the Warriors' men's soccer program.
 
"I am pleased to welcome Morgan back to the Warrior Family. His unwavering commitment to the personal development of student-athletes, history of success, and emphasis on team culture led me to his selection," said Director of Athletics Terry Donovan.
 
Cathey was the Stan State assistant coach during two of the program's most successful seasons in 2011 and 2012.
 
Under his leadership at Whitworth, Cathey's teams posted a record of 82-39-16 in seven seasons. The Pirates won three consecutive Northwest Conference championships and made three trips to the NCAA Division III tournament from 2014 through 2016. Whitworth advanced to the round of 16 in 2014.
 
"I am thrilled to be back at Stan State! I believe this program provides an unrivalled platform to impact lives, play great soccer and leave a positive mark in the greater Central Valley." Cathey said."
 
During Cathey's tenure as the Warriors' top assistant coach under Dana Taylor, the Warriors finished 11-6-2 in 2011 and 12-5-3 in 2012. The 2012 season was one of the most successful in school history as the Warriors won a CCAA tournament championship and went on to post a first round victory in the NCAA Championship tournament.
 
As a Warrior, Cathey was responsible for day-to-day operations that included training, recruiting, fundraising and scouting.
 
Cathey, who begins his new stint on Feb. 1, will become the Warriors' sixth head coach during the CCAA era.
 
"During my last tenure, my family and I have the fondest memories of winning championships and growing life-long relationships along the way. Stan State is a special place and program and I feel honored to lead this next chapter of its history."
 
Prior to his time at Stanislaus State, Cathey coached professionally in South Africa from 2009 to 2011.
 
As a four-year standout goalkeeper at Azusa Pacific (2002-05), Cathey was an honorable mention All-American selection while helping guide the Cougars to a NAIA championship finals appearance in 2005.
 
Cathey played for the Cascade Surge in Salem, Ore., of the Premier Development League in 2006 after he obtained a Bachelor's Degree in Youth Ministries at APU. From 2007 to 2009, he played professionally in South African for Ajax Cape Town. As a starter in Cape Town, he helped lead the Ajax to a runner-up finish in Absa Premiership, the to tier in South Africa pro soccer).