Elon, N.C.- Elon University women's soccer head coach Neil Payne announced two new additions to its coaching staff earlier this week. Clifton Bush and Jenifer Thomas will both join the staff of the women's soccer program for their upcoming season.
"We're thrilled to add Clifton and Jen to our coaching staff, as we're getting a very experienced GK coach and a great analytical mind in Clifton, who brings over 15 years of experience in the game, said Payne. In Jen, we're getting a great coach who had a very successful playing career at an elite level. I'm excited about the years of experience Clifton and Jen will bring with their collective skill sets to give us the ideal balance moving forward."
Clifton Bush joins the staff after serving as an assistant coach at Bellarmine University in Louisville. Bush has coached both at the collegiate and professional level following a four-year stint in the NWSL. Bush comes to Elon with North Carolina roots, having been the head coach at UNC Asheville from 2019-21. Bush was also an assistant with the Bulldogs for two seasons, working primarily with the goalkeepers.
"I'm excited to be joining a team and university of such quality. Much appreciation goes Jen, Jeffrey, Neil, and Sean for being so welcoming, said Bush. I've seen firsthand the quality of the Elon Women's Soccer program and I look forward to working with this highly motivated and talented group of student-athletes."
Thomas joins the staff following a stint as youth coach at Real Colorado. She has been at the club since 2010, working with the ECNL and Athletico/Olympico teams. In 2017, she helped lead the U15 Real Colorado Olympico team to the US Youth Soccer National Championships. Thomas strengthens the Colorado connection, joining head coach Neil Payne and Sean Sandoval who both spent time at the club.
"I am incredibly excited to join the coaching staff at Elon University. It's an honor to be part of a program with such a rich history of excellence and a commitment to developing student-athletes both on and off the field, said Thomas. I look forward to contributing to the team's success and working with a talented group of players and coaches. This opportunity represents a thrilling new chapter in my coaching career, and I'm eager to bring my experience and passion for the game to Elon."
Elon women's soccer will begin its season later this week, as they take on USC Upstate in an exhibition match at Rudd Field. Kick off will be at 7 pm.
