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Bates to Assume New Role as Women’s Soccer Coach


Clearwater Christian College is pleased to announce that Mark Bates has been named the new women’s soccer coach. Previously serving as men’s soccer coach from 2003-2007 and assistant men’s soccer coach from 2008-2009, Coach Bates is no stranger to the CCC athletic department. During his tenure with men’s soccer, his teams advanced to the National Tournament 3 out of 4 years, finishing 4th in 2007 with a record of 15-4-3.

A graduate of Tennessee Temple University, Coach Bates earned his B.S. in physical education. Prior to coming to Clearwater, he taught in a Christian school for fourteen years and also served as an assistant pastor and youth minister. He also coached high school soccer for nine years and earned four state championships.

Mark and his wife Donna live in Oldsmar and have 3 grown sons, Philip, Thomas, and Andrew, each of whom were soccer All-Americans while students at Clearwater. Athletic Director James Whitaker said, “I’m excited that Coach Bates will be taking over the women’s soccer program. He is a proven coach, and I believe he will be successful in taking our women’s soccer program to the next level.”

Chad Heffelfinger, former player and graduate of CCC, will stay on with the team and continue his role as assistant coach. Coach Heffelfinger has served as assistant coach of the women’s team for the past 2 years.