Men's Soccer | 3/20/2026 12:30:00 PM

LORETTO, Pa. - Saint Francis University Director of Athletics Jim Brazill has announced the hiring of Shelby Edwards as the men's soccer head coach. He becomes the 11th head coach as the team enters its 43rd season in the fall of 2026, and the first as the Red Flash transitions to an NCAA Division III program in the Presidents' Athletic Conference.

"Shelby is familiar with the PAC as a student-athlete and an assistant coach at Hiram. He also gained valuable experience as an assistant coach at Mount Union and Oberlin, and we are excited for him to lead  the new era of Red Flash men's soccer," said Brazill. "Our men's soccer program has been one of the teams fighting for an NEC Championship the last couple of years, and we look forward to continuing to build on that momentum as we transition to the NCAA Division III and the Presidents' Athletic Conference." 

Edwards brings six years of assistant coaching experience from three Division III schools in Ohio: Oberlin (2025), Mount Union (2024), and his alma mater, Hiram (2022-23). 

"I am incredibly honored and excited to take on the role of men's soccer head coach at Saint Francis University during such a meaningful and transformative time for the program," said Edwards. "Saint Francis has a proud tradition of academic excellence and competitive success, and I have a great deal of respect for the foundation that has already been built here, both within the athletic department and the men's soccer program. The history of commitment, resilience, and achievement across the university is something I'm eager to embrace and build upon."

Edwards coached two North Coast Athletic Conference third-team performers in his one season with Oberlin before arriving at Saint Francis. 

"As the program transitions from Division I to Division III, I see this as a tremendous opportunity to refocus on developing the complete student-athlete, on the field, in the classroom, and in the community," said Edwards. "This shift allows us to be intentional about creating a culture that values hard work, accountability, and a genuine passion for the game, while also honoring the successes and standards that have defined Saint Francis over the years. I'm excited to work with our returning players, connect with alumni, and engage with the campus community to continue advancing this program. Our goal will be to compete at a high level, represent Saint Francis University with pride, and build something that reflects both the tradition of success here and the vision for what this program can become in this new era."

Edwards spent the 2024 season at Mount Union, where the Purple Raiders men's soccer team went 15-5-1 overall and 8-1 in the Ohio Athletic Conference (OAC), including winning the conference regular season and advancing to the OAC championship game. Seven Mount Union players were named to the All-OAC, including two first-team selections. He also coached a two-time All-American, the OAC Defender of the Year, the OAC Forward of the Year, and the Purple Raiders coaching staff was named the OAC Coaching Staff of the Year for that campaign. He also assisted the women's soccer team that season and coached one all-conference selection.

Edwards began his coaching career at his alma mater, Hiram, for two seasons. He also served as the interim head coach during the spring of 2022, helping retain returning players and bring in five recruits, including two international players. 

He also served as a goalkeeper coach with Quicksand's Goalkeeping (2018-21), as the head coach of Cleveland Force SC (2022-present), and as the Director of Coaching with the Force (2025-present).

Edwards was a four-year letterwinner at Hiram from 2018 to 2021. He ranks seventh in program history in games played by a goalkeeper (37), ninth in saves (175), ninth in saves per game (4.73), and 10th in goals against average (2.18). He also excelled in the classroom, earning Dean's List honors three times. Edwards earned his bachelor's degree in marketing and sports management at Hiram in 2022. 

What They Are Saying About Shelby Edwards
Joe Chmura, Men's Soccer Head Coach at Hiram College:
"Shelby Edwards is a great choice to take over the men's soccer program at Saint Francis. As the athletics program begins a new chapter with its move to Division III, having someone like Shelby, who knows the landscape, the level required to succeed, and how to recruit athletes from the area, will be a massive advantage for the program. Shelby has a passion for soccer and coaching that few others can rival. He will work tirelessly to find players who are the right fit for the program he is building, but those same players will stay because they will see that Shelby is a coach willing to work for them in their development, both academically and athletically. As a fellow PAC coach, I am excited to see that the newest member of the conference is in good hands."

Paul Shaw, Cleveland Force Director of Coaching (former professional player in the Premier League):
"Coach Shelby Edwards is an exceptional soccer coach whose passion and knowledge of the game truly set him apart. Coach Edwards consistently demonstrates a deep understanding of soccer, combining strong technical expertise with the ability to effectively teach and inspire players at all levels. What makes Coach Edwards particularly outstanding is his genuine passion for the sport. This enthusiasm is evident in every practice and game, motivating players to perform at their best while also fostering a love for soccer. In addition to their knowledge and dedication, Coach Edwards has a remarkable ability to connect with players. He creates a positive and supportive environment where athletes feel encouraged to grow, take risks, and build confidence both on and off the field."