MOUNT VERNON, IOWA . . . Derek Bell has resigned his position as Cornell College's head men's and women's soccer coach after one season leading both programs.

"This was a very personal decision. I'm moving back to Wisconsin to spend more time with family," Bell said. "I felt fortunate to be a part of the Cornell soccer program and to work with quality student-athletes whom I have the utmost respect for. I am impressed with the direction the soccer program is taking. I'm looking forward to seeing both programs continue to grow."

Cornell Director of Athletics John Cochrane said a search for Bell's replacement will begin immediately.

"Derek had a tremendous impact on our soccer program in a very short period of time," Cochrane said. "Although it is difficult to lose Derek, he has helped establish a foundation for our program that will allow us to be successful in the immediate future."

Bell fielded two all-Iowa Conference performers in his lone season on the Hilltop. His young men's squad finished 4-13 overall, 1-7 in the IIAC. The team brings back eight starters next fall, including its top three scorers and both goalkeepers from 2009.

The Cornell women went 5-12 overall, 1-7 in league play. The women's squad was also young with only one player graduating.

Bell took over Cornell's programs in April 2009. He came to Cornell after two successful seasons as a women's assistant at UW-Stevens Point, where he helped lead the Pointers to consecutive trips to the NCAA Division III Tournament Sweet 16.