Eureka College has named Colin Nelson the sixth head coach in the history of its men's soccer program, Director of Athletics Sara Shaw announced Monday.
Nelson, who has served as an assistant coach for the Red Devils since 2024, steps into the role following the resignation of head coach Ryan Woodside, who is departing to pursue opportunities outside of coaching.
"I am really proud of the strides we've made in the last few seasons and am excited to see Colin continue pushing the program to new heights," Woodside said. "Colin knows our team better than anyone and knows what it takes to build a successful program. He's a great coach and an even better leader, who values relationships and will serve as a great mentor for young men."
Shaw thanked Woodside for his leadership and the foundation he helped build within the program.
"I am incredibly thankful for Coach Woodside's leadership and how he transformed our Men's Soccer program over the past four seasons," Shaw said. "I wholeheartedly wish him nothing but the best as he and his family start their next chapter. Anytime you lose a coach that is as dedicated to their student-athletes as Ryan was, it's difficult, but we are excited for him and all of the possibilities in front of him. He leaves the program and our student-athletes in very capable hands and we know his tremendous work will continue."
Shaw also expressed excitement for Nelson as he steps into the role.
"Coach Nelson has been here at Eureka right alongside Coach Woodside for the last two years and has remained exceptionally committed to the goals of our department and our soccer program," Shaw said. "He's a fantastic leader who deeply cares about student success and he knows how to build successful programs. He has a tireless work ethic. I know he will continue moving the program forward. We are thrilled to see what he does with the program next."
Nelson expressed gratitude for the opportunity.
"I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to lead the Eureka College Men's Soccer Program and am so excited to continue building on the vision we set out to achieve within the team and the athletic department," Nelson said.
Nelson joined the Eureka coaching staff ahead of the 2024 season, bringing a wealth of experience and expertise to the Red Devils' program. He began his coaching journey with the Midwest Wings Soccer Club, where he focused on developing players and organizing training sessions while pursuing his Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity at Olivet Nazarene University.
After completing his undergraduate studies, Nelson furthered his education by pursuing a Master of Business Administration while serving as first assistant coach at Olivet Nazarene. During his time with the Tigers, he played a pivotal role in the program's success, organizing training sessions, serving as head recruiting coordinator, and assisting with scholarship allocation.
Under Nelson's guidance, Olivet Nazarene posted a 16-2-3 record in 2022 and a 12-4-3 record in 2023, capturing two Chicagoland Collegiate Athletic Conference regular season titles and two CCAC conference championships. The program produced three All-American recipients and eleven CCAC All-Conference nominations during Nelson's tenure.
In addition to his collegiate experience, Nelson has been involved with Chicago Empire South, contributing to player development and collegiate player placement. He currently serves as U17 Head Coach (2024–2025), U19 Head Coach (2024–2026), and U19 MLS NEXT Head Coach (2026–present) with Central Illinois United.
Nelson holds a United Soccer Coaches Level 1 Goalkeeping License, an FA Level 1 Talent Identification certification, and a US Soccer Coaching D License.