Alex Delgado has stepped down as Palm Harbor University’s boys soccer coach to take a job as an assistant at the University of Tampa.
“This was just too good of an opportunity to pass up,” Delgado said. “Plus, I think after six years as coach, it’s time to have a new voice with the program. But deep down I’ll always be a part of the program.”
Delgado’s ties to PHU run deep. As a player, he helped the Hurricanes win their first state title in 2002. He returned to his alma mater as a coach in 2008 and guided PHU to three final four appearances (2009, 10 and ’12) and a state title in ’09.
This past season the Hurricanes lost in the district semifinals, marking just the second time they missed the playoffs in the past 13 seasons.
Delgado said he made the announcement during the team’s banquet. He became frustrated with the Clearwater Chargers developmental academy team going to a year-round schedule, which took away some of his better players. But he said that didn’t play a role in his decision.
“I knew during the season I was going to make this move,” Delgado said. “I want to say anything then because our guys to focus on the season. I’ve dealt with club soccer issues in the past, and I’ve always come back. This was just a great opportunity to coach soccer at the next level.”