WASHINGTON – American University Director of Athletics & Recreation JM Caparro has announced a contract extension for head men's soccer coach Zach Samol, securing his leadership of the program through 2029.

In 2025, Samol guided the Eagles to a 7-1-1 record in Patriot League play, earning AU the regular season championship and the No. 1 seed in the conference tournament. Overall, American went 8-8-2 against a schedule that included No. 1 Vermont, No. 3 West Virginia, and No. 11 Virginia. The top seed marked the program's first since 2016. 

"Zach has built a program that embodies consistent excellence and represents American University with pride," said Caparro. "From a Patriot League title to multiple postseason runs and top national competition, he has elevated AU men's soccer while developing exceptional student-athletes on and off the field. We're proud to have Zach continue leading this program into the future."

Samol and his assistants were named Patriot League Coaching Staff of the Year honors, while senior Troy Elgersma earned Midfielder of the Year honors and Matthew Tibbetts was recognized as the league's Goalkeeper of the Year. Concluding AU's best season in nearly a decade, seven Eagles earned All-Patriot League recognition.

The Eagles have advanced to the Patriot League Tournament in six of Samol's seven seasons, capturing the Patriot League Championship in spring 2021 for the first time since 2004. That championship sparked three straight appearances in the PL title game for AU, followed by a semifinal berth in 2024 and a bye into the semifinal round in 2025. Under Samol's leadership, 29 players have earned All-Patriot League honors.

"I'm thankful to JM, President Alger, and everyone at American University for their continued belief in our program," said Samol. "It's been rewarding to see how far we've come and how invested our players are in representing AU the right way. I'm excited for what's ahead as we keep pushing this program forward."

For the latest on American University men's soccer and to receive in-game updates, stay tuned to AUEagles.com and follow the team on X (@AU_MSoccer) and Instagram (@au.msoccer).