JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Jacksonville University Senior Vice President/Athletic Director Alex Ricker-Gilbert and Men's Soccer Head Coach Mauricio B. Ruiz mutually agreed Wednesday to part ways.
 
Assistant Coach Thomas Buckner takes over as the acting head coach, effective immediately, while a national search for the program's next head coach begins.
 
"I want to thank Mauricio for his years of service to the program, the young men he has coached and his contributions to the university as a whole," said Ricker-Gilbert. "We wish him nothing but the best as he pursues other opportunities.
 
"We are confident that this program can make a consistent impact both in the ASUN Conference and in the community."
 
Ruiz coached the team for nine seasons, compiling a 44-86-11 record overall and guiding the program to an ASUN Regular Season and Tournament Championship in the 2021 Spring Season, with the team's first trip to the NCAA Tournament since 2008.
 
"I'm beyond grateful for my time at JU. I've been able to start a family, develop personally and professionally, while building and growing wonderful relationships that will last a life time," said Ruiz. "I'm thankful to President Cost for trusting me to lead this program and Alex Ricker-Gilbert for the support through it all over the years.
 
"JU will always hold a special place in my heart and I'll forever be grateful for my time here. I wish the program, the players and their families nothing but the best going forward. Go Dolphins."
 
JU men's soccer first competed in 1957 and have had 11 coaches in the program's history.