Oancea named men's soccer coach

Former Romanian national player signs with SAGU

WAXAHACHIE, Texas -- Southwestern Assemblies of God University’s announcement of Clementin Oancea as the new Head Coach of the men’s soccer team was as much about his expertise in developing talent as it was about vision and ministry.

A former professional soccer player in his native country; he was born in Deva, Romania, Clem Oancea (Ah-WANCH-a) signed his first pro contract by age 16 (Division B, 2nd Division) and his second at 18 (Division A, 1st Division).

His playing style on the pitch earned him the nickname of “the Romanian Franz Beckenbauer,” who is still considered the greatest German footballer of all time. Defensive prowess and a creative, attacking mindset were Oancea’s trademarks.

Originally hired as an Assistant Coach a year ago by Aaron DeLoach, the former SAGU head coach, Oancea was elevated recently to direct the SAGU Lions team as well as their community outreach program.

His vision for utilizing the world’s most popular game as a tool to make a difference in the lives of people is as strong as his strategies and concepts as a coach.

“Coach Oancea brings an incredible amount of soccer expertise in the areas of administration and technical skill to our soccer program,” said Jesse Godding, SAGU’s Athletic Director. “Having served as assistant coach this past year, he has great familiarity with the strengths and weaknesses of our program.”

“His life as a Christian man, husband and his ongoing relationship with a missions project in Honduras is and will be a tremendous model for the young men who are watching his life as he coaches them,” Godding added.

Coach Oancea takes over the reins of a young SAGU team that produced their first-ever winning season in the fall. The squad went 10-9-5 and finished seventh in the 12-team Red River Athletic Conference. The ‘Cats were 4-5-2 against league foes.

The top six teams qualify for the post-season conference tournament, which has at stake a berth in the NAIA’s national playoffs.
SAGU had a combined 11-35 overall record in the three previous seasons, including a 1-22 mark in the Red River.

They swept three teams to win the NCCAA’s Central Regional, advancing to the Nationals in Orlando, where the Purple Pride held their own, going 0-2-1.

This year’s Lions increased their scoring from 23 goals to 49, improving their goals per game average from 1.35 to 2.04. Defensively they yielded 1.83 after surrendering 2.58 the season before.

Combining a new recruiting class with a solid cast that returns, SAGU should continue their rise in the RRAC as a new threat to the perennial powers.

The Lions are in the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) Division I.

Oancea brings a 16-year professional resume; six on the Romania’s international team and ten in the United States.

Having recently returned from a missions project in Honduras, Oancea will lead the Lions in participating in seven outreaches that he directs with the Charity Cup organization.

He continues to serve as Director of Coaching for FC Dallas’ Youth Academy Development teams, U-16 and U-18.

Contact: Mark “Link” Warde, Sports Information Director, at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or at 469-658-2847.