Former Xavier coach Graham takes over Prairie girls' soccer program

CEDAR RAPIDS - Cedar Rapids Prairie announced Friday afternoon that Doug Graham has been hired as the school's girls' soccer coach, pending school board approval.

Graham led Cedar Rapids Xavier to four consecutive state championships from 2008 to 2012. He was an assistant coach for the Cedar Rapids Kennedy boys' team last season, where his son, Nick, plays.

'I am ecstatic to be the head girls' soccer coach at Prairie,' Graham said. 'Prairie is an excellent school with wonderful kids, and I look forward to building a positive program that will lead to success at all levels. Our goal is to compete with the best programs in the state.'

Graham played professional soccer in England and has been involved in coaching the sport locally for the last 20-plus years. He has been a senior staff coach with the Prairie Soccer Club the past five years.

'We are extremely excited to have Doug lead over women's soccer program,' said Prairie Athletics Director Rocky Bennett. 'His credentials speak for themselves. He is a proven winner and we look forward to seeing our program prosper under his leadership.'