Chris Laxton referred to his tenure as head coach of the Douglas College Royals women's soccer team "the honour of a lifetime."
But now, it's time to focus on a new chapter.
On Dec. 18, Douglas College Athletics announced that Laxton will be stepping down after 10 years at the helm of the women's soccer program, noting he wants to spend more time with family.
The New Westminster post-secondary was dominant on the women's pitch since Laxton took over in 2014.
This included a PACWEST banner and a trip to the Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) national championships from the 2023 campaign.
During his time with Douglas, Laxton racked up three conference titles and five trips to nationals. He even helped the women's soccer team achieve its best-ever finish with a bronze at the 2016 CCAA championships.
"I feel that we merely provided the direction and guidance to allow our student-athletes to set the culture they wanted, which included having safe, positive, inclusive, and enjoyable experiences," said Laxton in a team statement.
"I felt it was important to let our leaders lead and our coaches coach, and I hope that when leaving the program, everyone felt they were able to leave their fingerprints on the program whilst being their best selves."
Laxton made a quick impact on the program, earning a record of 10-1-4 in his inaugural season in 2014. His career with the Royals ends with an overall record of 61-21-28.
Laxton said he's also grateful for the players and coaching personnel he's worked and connected with along the way.
"This opportunity has meant the world to me and has shaped me into the person, coach, father, and husband I am today."
Laxton was a "Premier," National Soccer Coaches Association of America, and "B" National, Canadian Soccer Association, certified coach when he started with Douglas College.
In 2022, while with Richmond FC, he was awarded a Canada Soccer "A" diploma through the national governing body's advanced education program.
Douglas will be announcing a new head coach for the program in the coming weeks. The team will be looking to defend its PACWEST title next season, with the first games tentatively scheduled for the first weekend of the 2024 fall semester. The program will be announcing new recruits throughout the next few months.
