Men's Soccer Dedicates Coaches Award in Memory of Mike McIlwain

COLLEGE PARK, MD -- Maryland men's soccer head coach Sasho Cirovski has dedicated the team's annual Coaches Award in honor of former player Mike McIlwain. McIlwain passed away on June 6 after a courageous battle with cancer.

"It is my distinct honor to dedicate our Coaches Award in memory of Mike McIlwain.", said head coach Sasho Cirovski. "Mike was one of the very first student-athletes I recruited, and he played a pivotal role in laying the foundation for our early success here at Maryland. He exemplified professionalism in everything he did and was the ultimate teammate. Mike carried that same passion and dedication into his professional life, selflessly serving his patients and giving back to his community. Above all, he was a devoted husband and father who always put his family first. There is no one more deserving of this recognition. Mike's legacy will forever be woven into the fabric of this program."

McIlwain played at Maryland from 1994-97, and was a member of the 1996 team that won the first ACC championship under coach Cirovski. Over his four years in College Park, McIlwain played in 67 games and made 16 starts. He finished his career with 13 goals and 10 assists, and helped lead the Terrapins to four consecutive Sweet 16 appearances. Maryland was the only program in the nation during that four-year span that reached the Sweet 16 every year. The team's 16 wins during the 1997 were the most in school history at the time.

Following his time at Maryland, McIlwain went to graduate school at the University of Florida to study dentistry. He brought the same hard work and dedication he learned on the soccer pitch to his next career, becoming a Diplomate and Fellow of the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry. For over 20 years Mike dedicated himself to his patients and his community, offering outstanding care and supporting families. He dedicated himself to many outstanding organizations, including donating his time and expertise to the Tampa Bay Cleft and Craniofacial Center.

Mike's love for soccer continued after his playing days, as a youth coach for Tampa Bay United. He loved mentoring young athletes, and strived to develop the same love for the game that he learned as a youth player.

Mike McIlwain is survived by his loving wife Cristina Yarnoz McIlwain, their three children: Ella, Grayson, and Lucia. He will be remembered for his tireless dedication to his family and his community.

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