Northwest Iowa Hires Soccer Coaches

Jesse Kuehler, Head Men's Soccer Coach

Northwest Iowa Community College (NCC) announces Jesse Kuehler as its first Head Men's Soccer Coach, starting January 3, 2024.

A Spencer native and a figure with an impressive soccer background, Coach Kuehler is set to lead the college into a new era of collegiate soccer.

Jesse Kuehler, an alumnus of Spencer High School has a deeply rooted connection to northwest Iowa. His family, including his parents and two sisters, are well-established in the Spencer community. Kuehler's soccer journey commenced at Iowa Lakes Community College, where he played for one season in 2011. He then transferred to Briar Cliff University, where he showcased his soccer talents for three seasons (2012-2015) and served as a student coach in 2016.

Post-graduation from Briar Cliff with a Bachelor's degree in Sports Management, Kuehler moved to Des Moines, IA. In Des Moines, he expanded his coaching resume by working with West Des Moines Soccer and Sporting Iowa for two years. His role as the 1st Assistant and goalkeeper coach for the Norwalk High School boys' soccer team was marked by remarkable success, leading the team to a 17-4 record and clinching the Iowa Boy's class 2A State Championship. This accomplishment underscores his ability to develop and lead successful teams.

Further enhancing his coaching experience, Kuehler spent a season as the Assistant Coach for the Women's team at Defiance College in Defiance, OH, broadening his expertise and perspective in soccer coaching.

Returning to Spencer, he continued his successful coaching career with the Spencer High School boys' team and NWISC club, achieving notable records and tournament appearances. His role at Iowa Lakes Community College as the Reserve coach and 2nd Assistant for the Men's team, contributing to their national championship victory, highlights his significant coaching experience.

Dr. Greta Giese, NCC Athletic Director, commented on the appointment, "Coach Kuehler's knowledge of the game, great connections in Northwest Iowa, and extensive soccer expertise will prove valuable as we build our soccer program and Athletics Department. I am excited to work with him as he leads our Men's Soccer Team."

Coach Kuehler conveyed his enthusiasm for the new position, stating, "I'm very thankful for the opportunity to lead NCC. I'm looking forward to hitting the ground running and bringing in some quality guys to compete in this tough ICCAC region! GO THUNDER!"

Tre Thomas, Head Women's Soccer Coach

Northwest Iowa Community College (NCC) announces the appointment of Tre Thomas as the Head Women's Soccer Coach.

Thomas, an accomplished coach with extensive experience in both men's and women's soccer, will join the NCC athletic department starting January 3, 2024.

Thomas comes to NCC from Garden City Community College, Kansas, where he served as the assistant coach for both the men's and women's soccer teams for three seasons. Prior to his time at Garden City, he was the assistant women's soccer coach at Bethany College, Kansas, for one season. Tre holds a degree in Sports Management from Southwestern College, Kansas.

During his tenure at Garden City Community College, Thomas played a crucial role in improving the performance and skill levels of his players. His dedication and coaching expertise led to the development of several all-conference players and assisted in the successful transfer of athletes to four-year institutions.

Before transitioning into coaching, Thomas had an impressive career as a semi-professional player. He played for Ozark FC in Bentonville, Arkansas, and the Wichita Selection indoor soccer team. His college soccer career was marked by significant achievements at Southwestern College, where he was a two-year captain and earned two-time all-conference honors. He also played for Cloud County Community College, Kansas, contributing to their national ranking and participation in the national tournament.

A Wichita, Kansas native, Thomas completed his high school education at Wichita High School East, where he excelled in soccer.

Dr. Greta Giese, NCC Athletic Director, expressed her excitement about the new appointment: "I am thrilled to have Coach Thomas leading our Women's Soccer Team. He brings a passion for soccer and a focus on student-athlete development to the NCC Athletics Department. I look forward to working with him as we build our soccer program."

Coach Thomas shared his enthusiasm for the new role: "I am grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the Northwest Iowa Community College institution and the Thunder community! I am ready to hit the ground running and start signing future Thunder recruits to our program. We are going to win on the field and in the classroom! I appreciate everyone's faith in me and am thankful for this opportunity to make this community and institution proud! GO THUNDER!"

Thomas will be actively recruiting for the women's soccer program at NCC which is starting the fall of 2024.