Northwest Mississippi’s Beattie earns fourth straight Region 23 coach award

James Beattie was named Region 23 Coach of the Year for the fourth consecutive season after guiding Northwest Mississippi Community College’s women’s soccer team to a 16-3 record and its fourth straight Region 23 and Gulf South District championships.

The Rangers earned the regional title with victories over No. 3 Pearl River Community College and No. 1 Holmes Community College. All three of Northwest’s losses came against teams ranked in the top 10, according to the college.

Northwest also recorded wins over five ranked teams and more than six teams that had appeared in the previous year’s national tournament. Beattie said overcoming setbacks required belief from both players and staff, and that losses to well-coached, talented opponents helped the team respond.

Beattie credited assistant coach Brandon Boren and the college’s broader support for the program’s success. He described the coaches’ different personalities as a balance that helps them connect with different players. He also cited facility improvements and support from President Dr. Heindl.

The award follows a run of four consecutive regional and district championships. Beattie said the achievement reflected the players who have contributed to the program and their ability to work through challenges.

Northwest was scheduled to compete in the NJCAA Division II national championship in Huntsville, Alabama, from Nov. 15-21. The Rangers were seeking a third straight national title and their fifth consecutive appearance in the tournament.

Source: Original Article