CHAPEL HILL, N.C. (WNCN) – The interim tag has officially been lifted for Damon Nahas after leading the University of North Carolina women’s soccer team to its first national title in more than a decade.
Nahas, the second person in NCAA women’s soccer history to win a national championship in their first year as a head coach, served on an interim basis following the retirement of legendary UNC coach Anson Dorrance just before the start of the 2024 season. He had previously been part of Dorrance’s coaching staff since 2015.
He guided the Tar Heels to a 22-5 overall record and a 7-3 mark in Atlantic Coast Conference play, culminating in the 23rd national championship in program history. UNC athletics director Bubba Cunningham informed Nahas of his decision before the Tar Heels’ title game win over Wake Forest on Dec. 9, and the Board of Trustees formally approved the hire in the following days.
“Damon Nahas has been an integral part of Carolina soccer for nearly a decade, and the way he has led, mentored, taught and inspired this year’s team as its head coach has been outstanding,” Cunningham said in a statement. “He is committed to developing players who win as both students and athletes and give back to the community, and he is dedicated to continuing the championship legacy of so many incredible soccer icons who have played at Carolina.”
This latest run marked UNC’s first title since 2012. He’s now the fourth Tar Heels head coach to win a national championship in their first year at the helm, along with Erin Matson (field hockey in 2023), Carlos Somoano (men’s soccer in 2011) and Dave Klarmann (men’s lacrosse in 1991).
“Coach Nahas has proven throughout his time as assistant and interim head coach that he is up to the task of leading our unparalleled women’s soccer program,” UNC Chancellor Lee Roberts said in a statement. “The level of success that he has achieved this season is extraordinary and speaks to his commitment to excellence both on and off the field. As we look to the future, I know that Coach Nahas will continue to guide our remarkable student-athletes to even greater heights.”
“I am honored to be named head coach of North Carolina women’s soccer and continue building upon the incredible legacy that has been established,” Nahas said in a statement. “Being part of this program for the past 10 years has meant so much to my family and me, and the chance to continue being a member of the Carolina family is a dream come true.”
“I want to thank Chancellor Lee Roberts, Director of Athletics Bubba Cunningham, the Board of Trustees and everyone within UNC Athletics for their belief in my vision as well as their trust and confidence in me to lead this program,” he added. “Thank you to Anson, my friend and mentor, for his unwavering support and guidance. And to the team, staff and my family who were the biggest factors for me throughout this process, words cannot express how grateful I am for each of you and what we accomplished together. To the fans, alumni and players: I am committed to making you proud, and I am excited for our bright future ahead.”