FAU Announces New Assistant Coach
Florida Atlantic University has named Lucas Champenois as its new assistant coach for the men’s soccer program, filling the vacancy left by Tom Harman’s departure.
Harman, who spent seven seasons at FAU, is transitioning to a First Team Analyst and Scout position with the Colorado Springs Switchbacks of the United Soccer League, bringing his analytical expertise to the professional ranks.
Champenois arrives after a successful stint at Campbell University, where he guided the team to a 10‑win season and a second‑place finish in the Coastal Athletic Association South Division in 2025, showcasing his ability to develop talent and compete at a high level.
Prior to his coaching career, he earned four years as a starter in goal for Saint Mary’s College, captaining the squad and earning Second Team All‑WCC honors in 2015, a testament to his competitive spirit and leadership.
He holds a U.S. Soccer Federation ‘D’ License, is fluent in French and proficient in Spanish, credentials that align with FAU’s emphasis on global perspective and player development.
The Owls are preparing to defend the American Conference title they captured in 2025, opening the 2026 campaign with matches against Mercer on August 20 and UCF on August 23.
Head coach Joey Worthen praised Harman’s contributions, highlighting the program’s rise to a Top 25 national ranking and its first NCAA Tournament appearance, and expressed confidence that Champenois will complement the team’s values and recruiting ambitions.
Worthen added that Champenois’s extensive background, including stints at FIU, NC State and New Mexico, equips him to nurture players who can transition to professional soccer, a track record that includes developing Sporting Kansas City’s first‑round pick Simon Afrifa and 2024 third‑round selection Mikey Appiah.