After four seasons, Western New England men's coach Mike Theulen is stepping down. He will remain as the school's director of athletics. Chris Agoglia, an assistant coach with the Golden Bears the last four years, will replace Theulen as the head coach.

Theulen, one of the most popular and successful coaches in the Northeast, compiled a 70-42 record for a 62.5 winning percentage during his tenure with the Golden Bears, including a 16-11 mark this past season. This winter his team tied for third place in its first season in The Commonwealth Coast Conference and advanced to the semifinals of the conference tournament.

Last year Theulen directed the Golden Bears to a 22-8 record, which was the second highest win total in team history. His squad also captured the Eastern College Athletic Conference Division III New England Tournament title for the program's first-ever postseason championship.

Theulen, who is in his 10th year as athletic director, previously served as the men's basketball coach at Springfield posting a 132-83 record (61.4%) from 1990-98. His overall men's basketball record stands at 202-125 (61.8%). Theulen gained his 200th all-time victory on Feb. 12 against Regis (Mass.). Theulen also coached the SC women's basketball team for three years (1983-86) compiling a 41-33 mark (55.4%).

“It has been a privilege to serve as the college's men's basketball coach the last four seasons,” Theulen stated. “However, the demands of my administrative position have increased dramatically, particularly over the past year with a new conference affiliation, the success of our teams, and in the fundraising area. The basketball program deserves full-time attention from its coach and the athletics department deserves full-time attention from its athletics director.

“I would be remiss if I didn't thank the players for their efforts and for all the support given me by my administrative staff, the coaching staff, and all of our student-athletes,” he added. “Without their support, this wouldn't have been possible. It is indeed a great time to be at Western New England College and to be part of this athletics family. The future continues to look very bright.”

Agoglia, a native of Brockton, Mass., graduated from Springfield with a bachelor's degree in Sport Management in 1998 and master's degree in Athletic Administration in 2000. He was a four-year member of the Pride men's basketball team, playing three seasons for Theulen.

A two-year starter at guard, Agoglia scored 620 points in 88 games (7.0 avg.) and was one of the team's best three-pointer shooters. He ranks sixth on the school's all-time list in that category (120). Agoglia averaged 8.5 points on the 1997-98 squad coached by Theulen, which posted a 26-2 record for the best mark in school history.

“Chris Agoglia has all the attributes to be a successful basketball coach at the College level. He has a passion for the game, is highly intelligent, knows how to teach, and communicates very well with our players,” said Theulen.

Also, Bill Downes retired as an assistant coach, but will remain with the college as its men's golf coach.