Former MCLA Coach, Ron Shewcraft, honored at CIAO Hall of Fame Induction

Pittsfield, MA- Former MCLA Men's Soccer Coach, Ron Shewcraft, was honored on Thursday evening at the CIAO Hall of Fame Induction.  Shewcraft was honored for his service and commitment to Berkshire County Soccer throughout his storied career.  Shewcraft was the head coach of the MCLA program for 29 years, while conducting various clinics and soccer camps for local youth.

Shewcraft's career coaching record was an impressive 307-185-7 spanning a total of 33 collegiate seasons.  His teams participated in 16 postseason tournaments, including six NCAA appearances.  During his first season, he guided the program to the Division III Final Four.

Shewcraft retired from coaching in May 2007.  Following his retirement, MCLA named its new state-of-the-art soccer facility the "Ron Shewcraft Field" in honor of his contributions to the institution and the community.  Shewcraft is still involved with MCLA, serving as the Physical Education department chair, while teaching full time.  He teaches within the Physical Education, Biology, and Coaching programs at MCLA. 

The CIAO (Community Italian American Organization) organization is the sponsor of the MCLA Fall Soccer Classic, which began under Shewcraft's tenure.  Over the years, the classic has helped the CIAO mission of providing scholarships to Berkshire County male and female soccer players.  Currently, the organization has handed out over $70,000 worth of scholarships.

The 2010 CIAO Classic is set to be held at Ron Shewcraft Field on the MCLA Campus, September 11th and 12th featuring MCLA, Union, SUNY-Potsdam, and St. Joe's (NY).