REDLANDS, Calif. - The University of Redlands is pleased to announce the hiring of Alex Ortega as the new Head Coach of its men's soccer program. Alex brings a proven track record of success at the collegiate level, exceptional leadership, and a passion for mentoring student-athletes as the Bulldogs prepare for the next chapter of their program. 
 

"Redlands has a proud tradition of developing competitive, well-rounded student-athletes, and we are committed to building on that legacy," said University of Redlands President Krista Newkirk. "We are thrilled to welcome Coach Ortega into our community and look forward to seeing men's soccer continue to grow and succeed under his leadership." 
 

Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics, Nikki Ayers added, "This was a highly competitive national search, and throughout the process, Alex consistently distinguished himself through his experience, leadership, and commitment to student-athlete success that make him well-suited to guide the program into the future." 
 

Alex joins the Bulldogs from Amherst College, where he served as Assistant Men's Soccer Coach and helped lead the team to unprecedented successes, including back-to-back NESCAC Championships in 2022 and 2023, an NCAA Sweet 16 appearance in 2022, a national runner-up finish in 2023, and the 2024 National Championship. He has also coached at Randolph-Macon College in Virginia, Clark University in Worcester, Massachusetts, and Colby-Sawyer College in New London, New Hampshire, earning a reputation for fostering excellence, teamwork, and student-athlete growth. 
 

"I'd like to thank Vice President Ayers and the entire search committee for their efforts throughout the hiring process," said Ortega. "It is an honor and a privilege to be selected to lead the next chapter of Redlands men's soccer and continue the longstanding success the program has seen under Coach Perez. I'm excited to begin working with this group and immerse myself in the Redlands community." 
 

This announcement coincides with a moment of change for the men's soccer program, as the University celebrates the retirement of Coach Ralph Perez, who has led the team for 19 remarkable years and enjoyed an amazing career spanning more than 50 years in the sport.  

"It has been an honor to coach at Redlands and be part of the incredible Bulldog community. I am confident that I am leaving the program in very capable hands, and I look forward to watching Coach Ortega and the team prosper in the years ahead," said Coach Perez. 

The Bulldogs enter this next chapter with strong momentum, coming off a 9-7-4 overall record and a 6-3-3 SCIAC record, earning co-champion status in the conference in the most recent season. 

For more information about the University of Redlands men's soccer program, please visit goredlands.com.