BUZZARDS BAY, Mass – Wednesday morning, Massachusetts Maritime Academy Athletics Director Mike Kelley announced the appointment of new women's soccer head coach, John Sousa. Sousa takes over for Yvonna Press who stepped down in October after two seasons as head coach.

"We are excited to announce John Sousa as the next head coach of our women's soccer team." Said Mike Kelley. "His experience, knowledge of the game and recruiting ability were big factors in bringing him aboard. With Coach Sousa at the helm, our athletic department knows that the women's soccer program is in good hands." Added Kelley.

Coach Sousa comes to the Buccaneers by way of Bristol Community College in Fall River, Mass where he spent one season, finishing 5-5, third overall in Region 21 of the NJCAA. Before BCC, Sousa coached at Wareham High School, Cranston East and Abbey Villa SC in Shrewsbury, Mass. His Abbey Villa U15 team was one of the top ranked teams in Massachusetts with multiple players now playing at the Division I level.

"I would like to thank the entire interview team, Massachusetts Maritime Academy Administration, and the Athletic Department, especially Mike Kelley for appointing me as The Head Women's Soccer Coach.  I am extremely humbled by the great support I received from my principal Roger Forget at Upper Cape Tech and best wishes from my former athletic director at Bristol Community College, Derek Viverois.  The Academy has a reputation that is second to none and I am extremely excited to start the recruiting process, meet the team, and build the program. 'Go Bucs!'" 

John has his United States Soccer Federation (USSF) C coaching license and many National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) diplomas.

The Seekonk, Mass native was a three sport athlete playing soccer, basketball and track & field at Seekonk High School. Following his high school career, John ran track at UMass-Dartmouth. While at UMD, Sousa earned his Bachelor's Degree and then Master's Degree in Special Education.

John currently resides in Buzzards Bay, Mass and enjoys fishing while also serving as a basketball official at the NCAA Division II and III levels.