UNCW Extends Neal Through 2029

WILMINGTON, N.C. – UNCW Director of Athletics Michael Oblinger has announced a three-year contract extension, which runs through 2029, for Women's Soccer Head Coach Chris Neal.

"Coach Neal has done a tremendous job building the program during his time here, and we're looking forward to seeing the program continue to grow," said Oblinger.

Neal, who was named CAA Coach of the Year, helped the Seahawks to an 11-3-4 overall record, including a 7-0-2 record in the Coastal Athletic Association, last fall. The Seahawks won the South Division title and entered the postseason as the top overall seed in the league.

In 2025, six Seahawks earned All-CAA honors, including Hailey Longwell, who was honored as the league's Attacking Player of the Year.

"I am honored to be trusted with leading this program in the future," said Neal, who enters his ninth season with UNCW in 2026. "We have built a team, and staff, full of wonderful people and it is a privilege to help them grow and achieve their dreams as Seahawks."

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Players Mentioned

#9 Hailey Longwell: F; 5' 7"; Redshirt Sophomore

Players Mentioned

#9 Hailey Longwell
: 5' 7"; Redshirt Sophomore
: F

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UNCW Extends Neal Through 2029

Players Mentioned

#9 Hailey Longwell

Players Mentioned

#9 Hailey Longwell