Mars set to hire Joe Haefner as new boys soccer coach, replacing longtime great Chris Knauff
Joseph Haefner is expected to be named as head coach of Mars’ boys soccer team, pending school board approval.
Haefner’s likely hire means he’ll take over for longtime Planets coach Chris Knauff, who stepped down after last season.
According to an article posted on the Mars school district’s website ahead of the 2018-19 school year, Haefner holds a master’s degree in special education from Slippery Rock University and a bachelor’s degree in social studies from Robert Morris University. He is listed as a special education teacher at Mars Area School District.
Mars athletic director Zach Matusak did not comment on the pending hires. While on the agenda, school boards must still approve any candidate brought forward by the AD.
Haefner was an assistant coach on the Mars girls team for a time and was a former Planets goalie under Knauff.
Knauff tallied a 301-77-23 record, winning three WPIAL titles (2008, 2009, 2020) and one Class 3A state title (2020). His teams captured 10 section crowns and reached the district playoffs in each of his 19 seasons.
According to the board agenda, Haefner will be paid $5,537 for the season.
