Ian Thomson Named New Head Coach for McPherson Women’s Soccer

The McPherson College Bulldogs have made a significant move by appointing Ian Thomson as the new head coach for their women’s soccer program. This decision was announced by Director of Athletics Josh Daume. Thomson, a seasoned coach with 15 years of experience, brings a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record of success in the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference (KCAC).

His appointment is seen as a strategic move to elevate the program’s competitiveness and foster holistic development for the student-athletes.

Ian Thomson’s Impressive Coaching Background

Thomson’s coaching journey is marked by notable achievements and a steadfast commitment to excellence. He spent a decade as the head women’s soccer coach at Tabor College, where he accumulated 74 career wins and led the team to eight KCAC Tournament appearances.

His tenure at Tabor was highlighted by the development of 51 All-KCAC players, 97 Academic All-Conference selections, and 52 Academic All-Americans. Thomson’s leadership also earned him two nominations for the KCAC Champions of Character Coach award and led the Bluejays to back-to-back KCAC Team of Character awards in 2014 and 2015.

Building a Legacy at Tabor College

At Tabor College, Thomson established himself as a transformative figure in the women’s soccer program. His ability to recruit and develop talent was evident in the numerous accolades his players received.

Under his guidance, the Bluejays became a formidable force in the KCAC, consistently competing at a high level and earning respect across the conference.

Thomson’s influence extended beyond the soccer field. His commitment to character development and academic excellence set a standard for his players. The recognition of his teams for their character and sportsmanship is a testament to his holistic approach to coaching.

This focus on developing well-rounded student-athletes is something that McPherson College is eager to embrace as Thomson takes the helm.

A Record-Breaking Tenure at Independence Community College

Before his success at Tabor, Thomson made significant strides at Independence Community College. During his five seasons with the Pirates, he became the all-time winningest coach in the program’s history.

His final season was particularly remarkable, as the team set new records for wins and other key performance metrics. This period of his career showcased his ability to turn around programs and achieve success even in challenging environments.

Setting New Standards

Thomson’s achievements at Independence Community College were not just about winning games; they were about setting new standards for what the program could achieve.

His leadership and vision transformed the Pirates into a competitive team that broke through previous limitations. This experience of building a winning culture from the ground up is something that McPherson College is looking forward to as they aim to elevate their women’s soccer program.

Looking Ahead: Thomson’s Vision for McPherson College

With his appointment as the head coach of the McPherson College women’s soccer team, Thomson is excited about the future. He expressed his gratitude for the opportunity and emphasized the importance of his coaching career.

“God has truly blessed me and my family to be able to accept this position,” he said.

Thomson is eager to start building McPherson into a strong, winning program.

Strategic Goals and Objectives

Thomson’s vision for McPherson College involves several strategic goals aimed at enhancing the program’s competitiveness and fostering a supportive environment for student-athletes. These goals include:

• Recruiting Outstanding Talent: Leveraging his extensive network and reputation within the KCAC, Thomson plans to attract top-tier talent to McPherson College.
• Holistic Development: Emphasizing not only athletic excellence but also academic achievement and character development.
• Building a Winning Culture: Creating a culture of success that permeates every aspect of the program, from training sessions to game days.

Thomson’s Personal and Professional Background

Thomson’s journey in soccer began as a standout player at Tabor College, where he was an All-KCAC selection in 2004 and team captain in 2005. His academic achievements were equally impressive, making the Academic Team in each of his three seasons with the Bluejays.

This blend of athletic and academic success laid the foundation for his coaching career.

Educational Background

Thomson holds a bachelor’s degree in graphic design from Tabor College and a master’s degree in Recreation and Sport Science from Ohio University.

This educational background has equipped him with a diverse skill set that he has applied throughout his coaching career. His understanding of both the technical and strategic aspects of soccer, combined with his academic credentials, makes him a well-rounded leader for the McPherson College women’s soccer program.

Community and Character

One of the standout aspects of Thomson’s coaching philosophy is his emphasis on community and character. His teams have been recognized for their sportsmanship and integrity, earning multiple Team of Character awards.

This focus on character development aligns with McPherson College’s values and is expected to be a cornerstone of Thomson’s tenure.

Impact on Student-Athletes

Thomson’s impact on his players extends beyond their time on the soccer field. Many of his former players have gone on to successful careers, attributing their growth and development to his mentorship.

His ability to inspire and guide young athletes is a key factor in his coaching success and will be crucial as he leads McPherson College into a new era.

Conclusion: A New Era for McPherson College Women’s Soccer

The appointment of Ian Thomson as the head coach of the McPherson College women’s soccer team marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter.

With his extensive experience, strategic vision, and commitment to holistic development, Thomson is poised to elevate the program to new heights.

The future looks bright for the Bulldogs as they prepare for the 2025 season and beyond under Thomson’s leadership.

For more detailed information, visit the official announcement on the McPherson College Athletics website.