ST. DAVIDS, Pa.– Eastern University Athletic Director Eric McNelley announced that Luca Mellor will lead Eastern's men's soccer program going forward. Mellor has worked as an assistant in the program for the past two years and brings a wealth of experience in the game and a deep commitment to seeing student-athletes grow in all aspects of their development.
Originally from the U.K., Mellor grew up around the game. His father coaches in the Manchester United youth system and Mellor played in that system until moving to Bradford City. He captained the U18 side and made several appearances with the U21 group before coming to the United States for college. He began his college career in the ACC at Pitt where he started 16 matches. He transferred to nearby Villanova and played in nine games for the Wildcats his first season there. In his final two years at Villanova, Mellor started 34 matches in the back row and with overtimes, averaged more than 90 minutes per game.
As a coach, Mellor has established the trust of his players and is able to communicate expectations. In addition to working with Eastern Men's Soccer, he earned a degree from the Templeton Honors College and has served the department as an academic success counselor. He is passionate about learning and wants to see his players find success on the field and in the classroom.
"I am very excited to announce the hiring of Luca Mellor as our next head coach, " McNelley said. "Luca brings a wealth of knowledge to the position and has a deep understanding the rich history of the Eastern Men's soccer program. He is a graduate of the Templeton's Honors College with a deep understanding and commitment to our Mission as a Christian University of Higher Education. I am excited to watch him grow as a young head coach who is driven to serve and lead for Christ."
"It will be my honor to lead this program and the young men that make it," Mellor said. "I hope to further develop the relationships I have with the current players and coaches as we strive as a program towards excellence. We will carry out the Eastern mission together."
Mellor will begin building his staff immediately.
