Waldorf University hires Emmanuel Awotula as Head Women’s Soccer Coach

FOREST CITY, Iowa – Waldorf University is pleased to announce the hiring of Emmanuel Awotula as Head Women's Soccer Coach. Awotula has over 15 years of experience at the collegiate level.

"I am deeply honored to be selected as the next Head Women's Soccer Coach at Waldorf University," said Coach Awotula. "I would like to thank President Dr. Robert Alsop, Athletic Director Chad Gassman, and the entire search committee for their confidence in me and for the opportunity to lead this program. Throughout the interview process, it became clear that Waldorf is a special place with a strong commitment to student development, community, and competitive excellence, and I am excited to become part of that tradition."

Most recently, he was the Director of Student Success and Media at Wheeling University. There, he was also the head women's soccer coach responsible for recruiting, organizing fundraising events, and preparing his teams for intercollegiate and postseason competitions. He also served as the Athletic Diversity and Inclusion designee and Student-Athlete Advisory Commission liaison.

Before that, he served as the head women's soccer coach and adjunct professor at three other universities: Lincoln University, Oakland City University, and Tennessee Temple University (now Carolina University). At Tennessee Temple, before taking over as the head coach for the women's program, he was the assistant head men's and women's soccer coach. He also coached with the Signal Mountain Soccer Club as their youth soccer head coach, teaching a high level of competency, conducting summer camps, and developing positive relationships with the athletes, parents, staff, alumni, and community.

Regarding his vision for the program, Coach Awotula said, "Waldorf University's commitment to developing student-athletes academically, athletically, spiritually, and personally aligns closely with my own coaching philosophy. My goal is to build a competitive program that emphasizes excellence on the field, success in the classroom, and the development of strong character and leadership skills that will serve our student-athletes long after their playing careers have ended."

Director of Athletics, Chad Gassman said, "We are thankful to have Emmanuel as our next head women's soccer coach. Coach Awotula is a veteran coach and a proven recruiter. I'm looking forward to him and his family joining the Waldorf and Forest City communities."

Coach Awotula has personally recruited athletes from over 30 U.S. states and over 30 other countries. He is currently pursuing his Doctor of Education in Sports Management and will begin his recruiting duties immediately.

"I look forward to working with our current players, building meaningful relationships throughout the campus and the Forest City community, and recruiting outstanding young women who are committed to both academic and athletic excellence. Together, we will establish a culture built on accountability, hard work, integrity, and a relentless pursuit of success. I am excited to get started and help build a program that the entire Waldorf community can be proud of."