Quincy, Ill. - Quincy University announced the resignation of head women's soccer coach Mackenzie Schissel on Wednesday (Nov. 20). Schissel worked through the ranks of the Hawks coaching staff, spending two seasons as a graduate assistant and one as an assistant coach before spending the last three seasons as the head coach. 

"It is with sadness that I accepted the resignation of Coach Schissel from her role as Head Coach of the Women's Soccer Program," said athletic director Josh Rabe. "Coach Schissel has decided to step down effective immediately, and while we are saddened by her departure, we fully support her decision and wish her nothing but the best in the future."

Schissel became the program's fifth head coach and first female coach in 2022 after spending a few weeks as interim head coach. Schissel obtained her Master's of Science in Education from Quincy University while assisting the Hawks in her first two seasons in Quincy. 

"I am very thankful for my six seasons with the women's soccer program," said Schissel. "What started as an opportunity to get into the coaching world as a graduate assistant in 2019 quickly turned into an unforgettable career. I am grateful for everything that QU has given me, but the best gift it has given me is a family—my husband, Matt, and our daughter, Marlee. My number one priority is my family, and with that being said, I am stepping away from college coaching."

Coach Schissel has accumulated a 10-27-13 record over her three seasons with two Great Lakes Valley Conference All-Conference selections and ten conference wins. 

"We are grateful for Mackenzie's commitment, passion, and the positive influence she has had on our entire campus," said Rabe. "Her contributions will not be forgotten, and we are proud of the foundation she has laid for the future of our program. We are currently beginning the process of finding a new coach who will lead our women's soccer program.  In the meantime, we remain committed to ensuring a smooth transition for our athletes, staff, and families."

"I want to thank the players in the program and my assistant coach, Michele Barletta, for a great last season," said Schissel. "We have made a lot of progress, and the future of this program is looking bright. I also want to thank Athletic Director Josh Rabe and President McGee for giving me the opportunity to lead this program. I am excited to start this next chapter of my life and look forward to being a QU fan and supporter. Go Hawks!"