GAINESVILLE, Fla. – The University of Florida has parted ways with soccer head coach Tony Amato, Athletics Director Scott Stricklin announced Wednesday.
Amato was hired May 24, 2021 and coached the Gators for the 2021 season. UF turned in a 4-12-4 record and tied for 10th in the Southeastern Conference with a 3-6-1 record. The 2021 campaign was Amato’s 19th season as a head coach – Rollins (2003-04 – 2009-10), Stephen F. Austin (2010-11 – 2012-13) and Arizona (2013-14 – 2020-21).
“This decision was extremely difficult. My thorough evaluation of the soccer program is that there is a disconnect between Tony and his athletes. We have worked diligently with Tony since last fall when I first became aware of challenges with relationship building and communication. As the issues continued to be brought to my attention, it became apparent that sufficient progress was not being made and Tony was not a fit for the University of Florida. Therefore, it is my assessment that in order to have the program we all expect, this change is necessary. I appreciate Tony’s hard work during his time here and wish he and his family the best.
“I fully recognize the disruption this causes our athletes and our program. We all wanted this to work, but ultimately it is my responsibility to do what is in the best long-term interest of this program, and thus this decision. We are totally committed to having an outstanding soccer program. I assure everyone this is extremely important to all of us as we begin the search for our new coach.”
* Scott Stricklin – University of Florida Athletic Director
