KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The National Soccer Coaches Association of America (NSCAA) announced that Corban University head men’s soccer coach Aaron Lewis has been named the Men’s NAIA Region Coach of the Year. For Lewis, the award comes on the heels of the best season the Warrior men’s soccer program has ever experienced.
“I couldn’t be happier for Aaron, and our student-athletes who get the privilege or playing under such an outstanding coach and leader,” said Corban University Director of Athletics Greg Eide. “Recognition by his peers with such a high honor speaks volumes of how blessed we are to have Aaron leading our soccer program.”
The NAIA Region Coach of the Year honor is a result of a vote by other coaches in the region. As the region’s award-winner, Lewis now advances to the NSCAA National Coach of the Year ballot.
Lewis led the Warriors to a 20-3 overall record, marking the most wins and best winning percentage in program history. The campaign included a Cascade Collegiate Conference (CCC) regular season championship, a CCC Tournament championship, the program’s first-ever win in the NAIA Opening Round, and the program’s first-ever trip to the NAIA National Championship Final Site.
“Coach of the year awards are the best example of an individual honor that should be shared by an entire team,” said Lewis. “I want to thank the athletic administration for the incredible support that makes having a successful program here at Corban possible. I’d like to recognize again our players’ consistent effort, professionalism, and commitment to establishing a successful team culture. Lastly, I want to thank my coaching staff whose talents, experience, and heart for our team made such a difference again this season. I am blessed by their selfless approach and willingness to use their gifts for the benefit of people.”
Lewis, who was a standout All-American player during his time at Corban in the late 1990s, was the first-ever player from the NAIA to be drafted into Major League Soccer (MLS) when he was selected by the Dallas Burn (FC Dallas) with the 35th overall pick in the 1999 College Draft. He remains the only Corban player to ever be drafted into the MLS. Following his time playing with Dallas, Lewis played professionally indoors for the Portland Pythons of the World Indoor Soccer League.
During his four years at Corban as the head coach, Lewis has led the Warriors to four-straight appearances in the NAIA National Tournament, three CCC Tournament Titles, and two CCC regular-season championships. This is the first time he has been named the NSCAA Region Coach of the Year.
