COLUMBIA, Ky. -- Lindsey Wilson College men's soccer coach Ray Wells has been named the National Soccer Coaches Association of American-National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics Men's Soccer Coach of the Year, the NAIA announced today.

The national honor is Wells' seventh national coach of the year honor in 20 seasons at Lindsey Wilson.

"It's obviously a tremendous honor to be recognized," Wells said. "But at the same time this award is more of a tribute to our program, our institution and the Lindsey Wilson College administration for their support of me personally and professionally.

The award comes on the heels of Lindsey Wilson's eighth NAIA national title.

The Blue Raiders captured the title in early December with a 1-0 win over The Master's (Calif.) College. Lindsey Wilson also captured the program's ninth Mid-South Conference regular season title and 10th MSC Tournament title.

"This year's team was terrific all season and an absolute pleasure to work with on a daily basis. Their hard work and unselfishness throughout the season ultimately led to this honor. I'm humbled and grateful and share this award with our team and Lindsey Wilson College."

Lindsey Wilson finished the season 20-2-1, winning its last 12 matches.

Wells owns a 386-63-21 in 20 seasons at Lindsey Wilson. In addition to winning the 2009 title, the Blue Raiders captured the 1995, 1996, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001 and 2005 titles.

In 27 collegiate seasons as a head coach, Wells has led his teams to a combined mark of 458-99-31. At four-year institutions, Wells' record is 397-75-24 in 22 seasons.

Wells will be recognized tonight at the 2010 NSCAA Awards Banquet held Philadelphia.