LIVONIA, Mich. – In a significant development for Madonna University Athletics, Paul Patton has announced his retirement and resignation as head coach of the women's soccer program, concluding a notable eight-season tenure in Livonia. Patton departs as the program's all-time winningest coach, having led the Crusaders to a WHAC Tournament championship and NAIA National Tournament appearances in 2020-21 and 2022.

Patton joined Madonna ahead of the 2017 season, bringing with him more than two decades of collegiate coaching experience from institutions including St. Catharine College, Spalding University, and Midway University.

During his time with the Crusaders, Patton compiled an impressive record of 92 wins, 46 losses, and 13 draws. Under his leadership, the team captured the 2020-21 Wolverine-Hoosier Athletic Conference (WHAC) Tournament Championship and made two NAIA Tournament appearances. One of the defining moments of his tenure came on October 15, 2022, when a 3-1 victory over Rochester marked his 72nd win at Madonna—officially making him the winningest coach in program history.

Patton also emphasized academic and individual development. His tenure produced 38 WHAC All-Conference selections, numerous WHAC All-Academic honorees, several Daktronics-NAIA Scholar-Athletes, four CoSIDA Academic All-District selections, and one CoSIDA Academic All-American.

"We are extremely grateful for all the contributions Coach Patton made to Madonna and the women's soccer program," said Director of Athletics Noel Emenhiser. "He did so much behind the scenes that often went unnoticed to the public, especially the work he put into our facilities, not just for his team, but for others as well. During his time here, he made a lasting impact, becoming the program's all-time winningest coach. We wish Paul all the best in this next chapter of his life."

Patton's resignation closes a chapter defined by competitive success and program stability. Moving forward, assistant coach Nick Atwood will serve as interim head coach while Madonna University conducts a national search for the program's next leader.

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