Widener steps down as head coach of Purples soccer

BOWLING GREEN, Ky. – Friday afternoon, longtime Bowling Green Purples soccer head coach Craig Widener resigned from the position to spend more time with his family, per athletic director Calvin Head.

“Coach Widener made this decision as he prioritizes his role as a father during an important time for his family… the demands of coaching a fall sport no longer align with Coach Widener’s family priorities,” Head said.

Widener took over the role back in 2005 and coached from then until the 2016 season, before picking back up those same duties in 2021.

Over his 15 seasons leading the Purples, Widener achieved 10 4th Region Championships, 20 state tournament wins, and two KHSAA State Championships (2006 and 2014).

There have been many collegiate and beyond soccer stars produced by Bowling Green during the tenure of Widener.

“BGHS sincerely appreciates Coach Widener’s dedication to the Boys Soccer program and the positive impact he has had on our student-athletes,” Head said. “His leadership, commitment, and contributions have helped foster meaningful experiences and success within the program.”