Tyler Tarango assumed the head coach duties for the McMurry program prior to the 2016 season. He had also served as an assistant to both the women's and men's teams for the 2015 season.
In 2017, Tarango's team orchestrated a tremendous turnaround as it finished 8-6-3 overall and was 5-3-3- in the American Southwest Conference (good for fourth place). The team advanced to the NCCAA regional tournament. Four players - Josh Erwin, Rafael Lara, Alex Chavez and Jesus Sanchez - were all recognized with ASC post-season honors. Additionally, Jordan Sczech was the ASC co-Freshman of the Year.
In 2016, men's soccer (3-10-3) had its largest roster in several years and a renewed enthusiasm within the program. Within the first few weeks of the season, Tarango's influence was evident as the team surpassed the win total from the previous year! The War Hawks even had a streak of three-consecutive scoreless matches (just one shy of the school record). Goalkeeper Alex Chavez, a newcomer to the McM roster, earned both the ASC and NCCAA "Student-Athlete of the Week" awards during the campaign.
Tarango enjoyed a four-year career with McMurry on the pitch (2009-12). He was twice named All-ASC honorable mention. He was also an NCCAA All-America selection, leading the War Hawks to a sixth place national finish in the NCCAA in 2012.
Tarango resides in Abilene with his new bride, Laura (the couple was married on July 21, 2017).
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