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Ross Paule said he couldn’t have found a better fit for his first foray into college coaching.

The former Bluejay standout has been named the head coach of the women’s program, replacing Bruce Erickson.

“It was an opportunity I wouldn’t even consider passing up,” Paule said. “It’s a special thing to go back.”

Paule, who has been coaching in youth soccer since retiring from pro soccer nine years ago, said he’s always wanted to get into a high level of coaching.

It’s something he’s discussed with former teammate Johnny Torres, an assistant for the men’s team. Torres told Paule about the CU opening.

From his playing days, Paule said he already knew about the history of Creighton and the leadership and its focus on helping student-athletes succeed. With his experience as a player and coach, he said he can do some amazing things.

“It’s a challenge. I love a challenge,” he said. “I want to bring my experience as a player and my passion to not just impact the athlete but the whole person.”

Paule won’t arrive in Omaha until next week, so he hasn’t had a chance to meet with the players. His first priority Tuesday will be speaking by phone with each of them.