Three-time Big Sky Conference Coach of the Year Gordon Henderson has been hired as the University of Arkansas' women's soccer coach, replacing Alan Kirkup, who was informed last month his contract would not be renewed.
Henderson has guided Idaho State to three NCAA tournament appearances since starting the Bengals' program in 1998, and is 47-28-7 in his past four seasons in Pocatello. ISU upset Utah in the first round of this year's NCAA tournament.
''IÆm genuinely excited about the possibilities at Arkansas,ö Henderson said in a statement. ''When you start talking about institutions that are in a league of their own, the University of Arkansas is one of those. It is a pleasure, a thrill, an honor to be a part of the coaching staff.''
Henderson started the program at Division II North Dakota State, coaching there three seasons, before moving to Idaho State. The Scotsman also served as a volunteer assistant for then-Division II power Sonoma State while working on his master's degree.
Kirkup departed in early November after going 34-59-4 in five seasons. The Lady 'Backs went 7-10-2 in 2003, missing the Southeastern Conference tournament for the third successive year.