NAIA Football’s Coaching Carousel: Who’s In, Who’s Out, and What’s Next for 2024-2025

It’s that time of year again—NAIA football’s version of musical chairs, where head coaches pack up their clipboards, shuffle playbooks, and take their talents to new sidelines. Whether they’re chasing new opportunities, retiring to spend time with family, or, well, being “encouraged” to move on, these coaching changes are as much a part of the offseason as two-a-day workouts in August.

Here’s a roundup of the head coaching changes shaking up NAIA football as we transition from the 2024 to the 2025 season. Grab your whistle and clipboard—it’s time to dive into the action!

Bethel College (Kan.): New Leadership for the Threshers

The Threshers saw not one, but two coaching changes this season. AB Stokes stepped down before the season even started, with Daylon Markham stepping in as interim head coach. Fast forward to the end of the season, and Markham also resigned, paving the way for Josh Lawson to take over the program. Lawson, previously the defensive coordinator at Calvin University, now has the reins. Let’s see if he can turn the Threshers into a force to be reckoned with in 2025.

Bethel University (Tenn.): The Wildcats Are on the Hunt

Michael Jasper, head coach of the Bethel Wildcats, has packed his bags for Florida to take on the same role at Stetson University. While the Wildcats look for their next leader, Chris Springer is serving as the interim head coach. No permanent hire has been announced yet, but you can bet the Wildcats are working hard to find someone who can rally the team for next season.

Faulkner University (Ala.): Gray Steps Down, Eagles Search for Their Nest Leader

After four years at the helm, Rob Gray has resigned as head coach of Faulkner University’s Eagles. Randy Ragsdale has stepped in as interim head coach while the search for a permanent leader continues. Will the Eagles find a coach who can help them soar again? Only time will tell.

Georgetown College (Ky.): A Familiar Face Takes Over

Georgetown’s Tigers are keeping it in the family. Longtime head coach Chris Oliver has stepped down from the sidelines but isn’t going far—he’ll stay with the Tigers as Vice President of Athletics. Defensive Coordinator John Perin has been promoted to head coach, giving the program some continuity as it looks to build on its successes. Can Perin take the Tigers to the next level? The ball is in his court now.

Grand View University (Iowa): A Championship Coach Moves On

Grand View University’s Joe Woodley, a national championship-winning head coach, has made the jump to Drake University, just across town in Des Moines. Woodley’s record with the Vikings was a jaw-dropping 72-5, leaving big shoes to fill. As of now, no interim head coach has been announced for the Vikings. Will they maintain their dominance, or will the coaching transition shake things up? Stay tuned.

Kansas Wesleyan: New Beginnings for the Coyotes

Kansas Wesleyan experienced mid-season turbulence when Matt Myers resigned halfway through the regular season. Despite the disruption, the Coyotes clawed their way into the postseason before bowing out in the first round. Enter Matt Middleton, the new head coach, who takes the reins after serving as an assistant coach at Harding University. Can Middleton stabilize the program and bring postseason glory back to the Coyotes? Time to find out.

William Woods University: A Smooth Transition for the Owls

The William Woods Owls are keeping things in-house after Julian Mendez resigned to join Washburn University’s coaching staff. Offensive Coordinator Sam Camp has been promoted to head coach, bringing his experience from Western New Mexico with him. Camp knows the program, the players, and the culture—giving him a strong foundation as he leads the Owls into the next chapter.

Why Coaching Changes Matter

For NAIA programs, head coaching changes ripple through every part of a team. Players adjust to new systems, recruiting strategies shift, and the culture evolves. But it’s also an opportunity—a fresh start for programs looking to rebuild or reach new heights.

For players, it’s a reminder that adaptability is key, not just on the field but in life. If you’re a student-athlete eyeing a career in coaching or management, watching these transitions unfold can teach you a lot about leadership, resilience, and stepping up when it’s your turn.

As these NAIA programs settle into their new leadership, one thing is clear: the 2025 season is shaping up to be a year of change, challenges, and potential breakthroughs. Let’s see how these teams and their new coaches handle the pressure—and who will rise to the occasion.

So here’s to the next chapter in NAIA football. It’s not just about who’s on the field; it’s about the vision and drive coming from the sidelines. Let’s play ball!