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Thissen Announces Retirement from Fitchburg State
Posted: Feb 11, 2022

Thissen Announces Retirement from Fitchburg State

FITCHBURG, Mass. – Fitchburg State University Director of Athletics Matthew Burke announced the retirement of Fitchburg State Men's Soccer Head Coach Werner Thissen.

"Coach Thissen has had a tremendous impact on the many student-athletes that have played under his tutelage for so many seasons," said Burke. "The staff and administration send heartfelt congratulations to Werner on such a great career here at Fitchburg State."

Thissen concludes his Fitchburg State coaching career with a record of 59 wins over 11 seasons at the helm, which was second all-time in school history behind former Fitchburg State Men's Soccer Head Coach Malcolm McPherson (108).

"It was time for me to step aside and dedicate more of my time to my growing family.  My first grandchild arrives this spring and I cannot wait to start that journey becoming an Opa.  I truly enjoyed working with my players over the many years, trying to make them reach their full potential on and off the pitch." Said Thissen. "Of course, winning the first and only MASCAC tournament title in our history will always be at the top of my list besides signing Luke who suffers from Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy as an honorary member of the Men's Soccer Team. 

I have met so many great players and their families from all over the world and I couldn't have done it without the support of a great athletic department, other coaches and my family. Thank you for all the wonderful memories. Once a Falcon - Always a Falcon."

Coach Thissen led the Falcons to its third ever appearance into the NCAA DIII Men's Soccer Championship Tournament in 2014 after the Green and Gold captured the Massachusetts State Collegiate Athletic Conference (MASCAC) Men's Soccer Post-Season Tournament, defeating the Bears of Bridgewater State, 1-0 in the championship game.

In addition, Werner coached a trio of MASCAC Men's Soccer Rookies of the Year, while also having several players selected to the MASCAC All-Conference teams.

A search for a new head coach will begin immediately.