SEWARD, Neb. – Nick Smith has announced his resignation as head coach of Concordia University, Nebraska Women’s Soccer. He was introduced as new head coach of the women’s soccer program at the University of Indianapolis on Thursday, Dec. 18. Smith arrived at Concordia in March of 2023 and spent three seasons leading the Bulldogs.
The Concordia Nebraska Athletics Department has initiated a search to find the next head women’s soccer coach. Director of Athletics Devin Smith thanked Nick Smith for his service to the department and wished Nick, his wife Marcy and two daughters blessings upon their relocation.
Said Devin Smith, “Nick was just the mentor we were looking for at the time he joined the Bulldog Nation. He was an optimistic and authentic leader who created systems, structures and expectations for himself, the staff and students. He worked tirelessly without complaint, seeking ways on the field to create a championship program for our department and university. Every student, spectator and staff member knew the team’s identity, their role and how they could contribute to the vision generated for our program. We are thrilled his tenure demonstrated such a positive culture built upon developing champions for Christ throughout the community, within the classroom and on the competitive surface. It has been a real treat to be a part of his progression as a college coach. Coach Smith and his family will be missed here in Seward.”
Coach Nick Smith expressed gratitude for his time at Concordia. This new opportunity allows Smith to move closer to his hometown of Whitehouse, Ohio.
Said Nick Smith, “I am incredibly grateful for my time at Concordia University, Nebraska. It has been an honor to serve this institution and to work alongside such dedicated student-athletes, coaches and administrators. I am especially proud of the women’s soccer players, whose commitment, character and competitiveness made these past three seasons so rewarding. Their growth on and off the field is something I will always value and I am thankful for the trust they placed in our staff and me. Concordia’s commitment to excellence, faith and community makes the Concordia experience so unique and special. I am appreciative of the support from the administration, athletic department, alumni and fans throughout my tenure.”
Over his three seasons leading the Bulldogs, Smith posted a combined overall record of 40-13-9 with GPAC league mark of 23-5-6. Each of his teams won at least 13 games. The 2024 squad made history while becoming the program’s first team to ever win a game at the national tournament. The ’24 Bulldogs also appeared in the GPAC tournament championship game. During his tenure, Smith coached First Team All-GPAC selections in Savannah Andrews, Kierstynn Garner (3x), Hannah Kile, Niah Kirchner (3x), Kyana Rios, Triniti Rowe, Taylor Slaymaker and Grace Soenksen. A Lincoln Lutheran alum, Soenksen was named 2023 GPAC Defensive Player of the Year.
Concordia University, Nebraska Women’s Soccer has consistently placed near the top of the conference standings since 2014. Over the past 12 seasons, the Bulldogs have captured three GPAC tournament titles, won a GPAC regular season championship (2017), have appeared in seven GPAC tournament title games, have placed second in the GPAC regular season standings five times and have qualified for four national tournaments.