The Elon University head men's soccer coach Darren Powell resigned Thursday afternoon to take on a coaching position with the Orlando City Soccer Club.

His position will be with the Orlando City Youth Soccer (OCYS) U.S. Soccer Development Academy (USSDA) program.

The move was announced by Elon's Director of Athletics, Dave Blank.

"Moving forward, my family and I are excited for the new challenge and opportunity at Orlando City," Powell said in a press release from the Orlando City Soccer Club. "To be able to help young players develop in the academy and prepare them for the next level within a soon-to-be MLS club is something that I am passionate about."

In nine seasons with Elon, Powell won three consecutive Southern Conference Tournament titles between 2011 and 2013, and led the Phoenix to its first NCAA tournament win in 2013.

Powell also won regular season titles in 2008 and 2012.

Powell teams have produced 47 All-Southern Conference players, four conference players of the year, two league freshman of the year, and four MLS draft picks.

He has been named Southern Conference Coach of the Year four times, including back to back season in 2012 and 2013.

Powell is Elon's all time winningest coach with a record of 94-68-23.

Currently Orlando City competes in USL Pro, the third tier of American Soccer. The team will officially become part of Major League Soccer in 2015.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Andrew Feather contributed to this article