Mount Marty University

Sheldon Spelman
Head Men’s Soccer Coach – 2nd Season
Mount Marty University

Sheldon Spelman enters his second season as the Head Men’s Soccer Coach at Mount Marty University, fresh off a historic debut year that revitalized the Lancer men’s soccer program. Known for his dynamic coaching style, passionate leadership, and commitment to building character-driven teams, Spelman has quickly established a culture of athletic and academic excellence.

A Historic First Season at Mount Marty

In his inaugural year at the helm, Spelman led the Lancers to a groundbreaking season on the pitch and in the classroom. Under his guidance, the program achieved:

• Postseason Milestones: Secured the program's 4th-ever postseason appearance and advanced to its first-ever semifinal appearance.
• Historic Results: Earned historic, milestone points against conference powerhouses Hastings College and Northwestern College.
• Player Recognition: Mentored 4 student-athletes to All-Conference selections.

The Lancers were equally dominant in the classroom, embodying Spelman's commitment to holistic student-athlete development. The squad earned the distinction of an NAIA Scholar Team, finishing tied for 10th in the country with an exceptional 3.49 Team GPA. Individual academic accolades included:

• 14 Academic All-Conference selections
• 6 NAIA Scholar-Athletes

Championship Pedigree & Elite Experience

Before taking over at Mount Marty, Spelman served as the Assistant Men’s Soccer Coach and Head Reserve Team Coach at Bethel University (Tenn.), where he played an instrumental role in the program’s national success. During his tenure, the Wildcats consistently ranked in the NAIA Top 25 and qualified for the 2023 NAIA National Tournament. Prior to Bethel, Spelman made a significant impact at Iowa Lakes Community College as a

Graduate Assistant and Head Reserve Coach. Under his guidance, the reserve squad posted a remarkable .811 winning percentage, while the varsity program maintained a consistent national NJCAA ranking.

Spelman’s coaching career began in Oklahoma, where he revitalized the program at Moore High School. He led the Lions to their first 6A playoff appearance in 18 years, achieved back-to-back winning seasons, and earned three academic achievement awards, with multiple players receiving All-Conference and All-State honors. Dedicated to community growth, he also served as Academy Director for Midwest City Soccer Club, founded a special education soccer initiative, and ran high-traffic youth skills clinics throughout the Oklahoma City metro area.Playing Career & Professional Credentials

As a player, Spelman competed at Eastern New Mexico University and Hillsdale Free Will Baptist College, earning ACCA All-American honors. His youth career included appearances at prestigious international tournaments like the Gothia Cup and Dana Cup, as well as two state championships and a Disney Cup title. “I’m honored to lead the men’s soccer program at Mount Marty,” said Spelman. “I look forward to building on the incredible foundation we laid in year one, continuing to mentor our student-athletes academically and athletically, and fostering a competitive, character-driven culture that reflects the mission of Mount Marty University.”

Spelman holds United States Soccer Federation (USSF) “B,” “C,” “D,” and “E” licenses and is anactive member of United Soccer Coaches.