TACOMA, Wash. - The Pacific Lutheran University athletic department is pleased to announce that head volleyball coach Kevin Aoki and head men's soccer coach John Yorke have been promoted to full-time after serving in a part-time capacity for the Lutes.

"I'm so excited for both John and Kevin to have the opportunity to serve PLU in a full-time capacity. The amount of success these two coaches have brought to PLU through competitive success, academic success, and the overall holistic approach to their programs as part-timers has been amazing," said athletic director Laurie Turner. "However, the demands of being a collegiate coach have changed over the years and many more hours are required to serve our student-athletes. At the end of the day, our ultimate goal is to provide an excellent student-athlete experience and having John and Kevin on campus on a more regular basis will assist us in meeting that goal. I appreciate the investment and support from upper administration to make this goal a reality!"

In 23 seasons as head coach, Aoki has amassed a laundry list of accolades. He's guided the Lutes to 12 NCAA Division III Tournament appearances and 11 Northwest Conference titles while winning NWC Coach of the Year honors on 10 occasions and West Region Coach of the Year accolades three times. Aoki owns a 415-181 career record on the court, including an eye-popping 285-83 record in NWC action.

"I'm so excited to join the staff at PLU on a full time basis," said Aoki. "I would like to thank President Allan Belton, Joanna Royce-Davis, and Laurie Turner for giving me this opportunity. I would also like to thank my family as well for allowing me to do this."

Aoki guided the Lutes to their second consecutive NWC title in the fall and wrapped up the season with a 21-4 overall record with a 14-2 mark in conference play.

In 18 seasons as head coach, Yorke has compiled a similarly impressive resume. He's led the Lutes to 192 victories and three Northwest Conference titles while earning NWC Coach of the Year honors on five occasions. Yorke owns a 192-120-21 career record on the pitch, including a 144-78-16 record in conference play.

"I'm excited to have not only an increased presence in the men's soccer program but also in the PLU campus community as well," said Yorke.

Yorke piloted the Lutes to their second straight NWC crown this fall, finishing the year with a 13-6-2 overall mark and a 9-3-2 record in NWC action.

Both Aoki and Yorke will begin their full-time duties on June 1.