How does a kid from England—who played in the youth systems of Premier League clubs end up building one of the top college soccer programs in America? Mark Francis’ love of soccer—or football, depending on where you’re listening—has taken him halfway around the world to Lawrence, where he’s transformed the Jayhawk program into one of nation’s best. That rise, so far, has culminated in the program’s first Big 12 Championship in 2019. A star player in his own right, Francis has lived his life in the game he loves. From the intense and competitive youth systems of the Premier League to starring in the American college game and playing professionally in the States … those experiences have shaped him into the coach he is today.  And despite the success, Francis isn’t satisfied. And it’s those grand visions that have led Francis and the Jayhawks to new heights.

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