Harper tabs Watson to lead men's soccer program

After the resignation of men's soccer coach Dan Klaus in late January, it didn't take long for Harper College athletic director Doug Spiwak to find a new leader for the program.

Andre Watson, most recently at Prairie Ridge High School, is the Hawks' choice.

Spiwak understands Watson will have a tough act to follow in Klaus.

"He built up a reputation for Harper soccer," said Spiwak, adding that Klaus provided "three phenomenal years at the helm."

Harper finished 9-7-1 last fall and came up short in an attempt to win the Region IV, Division III tournament for the first time in Klaus' three seasons.

Long-time goalie gura Tom Wang will continue as an assistant to Watson, who had contributed to both the boys and girls programs at Prairie Ridge and also had stints at Cary-Grove and Lake Zurich.

Spiwak said Watson hit all the right points in their interview.

"Soccer is a big part of his life," said Spiwak. "He's a soccer guy."

Kearns earns national honor: In last weekend's season-opening softball tournament at The Dome in Rosemont, Harper finished 3-3. The bright spot for the Hawks was freshman Jessica Kearns, who left the indoor confines with .383 average and 9 RBI. As a result, the Elk Grove alum was named the NJCAA Divsion III player of the week Wednesday.