Cypress names Cristian Rus as new head coach of men's soccer

CYPRESS – The Cypress College Director of Athletics, Bill Pinkham, announced the appointment of Cristian Rus as the new Head Coach of the Chargers men's soccer program this week.

Rus is the fifth coach in program history, bringing over 10 years of experience to the Cypress College men's soccer program. "As the incoming Head Coach, my goal is to create a culture of commitment, responsibility, accountability, and competitiveness," said Rus.

He is taking over a program that has struggled over the past few seasons, finishing the 2018 campaign with a record of 2-18. "I want our coaches and players committed to the same goal, so greatness can ultimately be achieved," Rus added.

Coach Rus enters his first season with Cypress after helping lead Fullerton College women's soccer to its first CCCCAA Playoff appearance in 14 seasons (2017 and 2018) and a second place finish in the OEC (2018) as an assistant coach. He has also coached with the Fullerton Rangers for over 10 years, where he successfully led the boy's and girl's programs to two National Cup Championships, qualified for the US Youth National Cup Championships, and transitioned numerous players on to play for the US National Team and four-year universities.

As a player, Rus began his playing career at the Youth Soccer Academy in Bistrita, Romania. He played at the academy level until the age of 17, when he came to the United States.  He continued his passion for soccer as a player at Loara High School, before moving on to play at Fullerton College and eventually BIOLA University. Rus went on to play semi-pro soccer in the PDL for the La Mirada Seahorses.

Coach Rus earned a Bachelor's of Science in Physical Education and a Master's Degree in US Education. He currently resides in La Mirada with his wife and three children.

(Wes McCurtis, Cypress College)