Filomon “Filly” Afenegus has stepped down as the boys soccer coach at Columbia River, the coach announced on social media Tuesday.
Afenegus has coached the River boys program for 14 years, leading River to the 2A state championship in 2018.
River also placed second in 2019 and third last spring. The Rapids are expected to be one of the top contending teams in the state again this spring.
“My time as the boys coach has officially come to an end after 14 years,” Afenegus posted on Twitter. “While I still love this program and the players, it’s time for me to be more present in my own kids’ lives.”
Afenegus is the second Columbia River head coach to step down this month. Last week, football coach Brett Smedley also resigned to spend more time with family.
Afenegus said River assistant coach Matt Newman has been promoted to boys head coach.
“Matt has been an assistant with the program for years and has helped us win state, district and league titles,” Afenegus said. “Anybody who knows him would agree that he is absolutely the right coach to lead this program for the next decade and beyond.”
Afenegus also coaches the girls team at Columbia River, leading them to state titles in 2013, 2017, 2020 and 2022. Afenegus said he will continue to coach the River girls.
“Thank you to anybody who supported me or the program over my 14 years,” Afenegus said. “It truly has been a pleasure.”
