NORTH NEWTON, Kan. — Bethel College is excited to announce the hiring of James Lipocky as the new head coach of the Thresher women's soccer program.

Lipocky brings over 15 years of collegiate coaching experience and a strong track record of program-building, player development, and character-driven leadership to Thresher Nation. He most recently served as the head women's soccer coach at Eastern Nazarene College in Massachusetts, where he was tasked with rebuilding a dormant program. In just two seasons, he quickly improved the roster, increased team success, and helped eight student-athletes commit to the program before the college's closure in 2024.

Prior to his time at ENC, Lipocky led the Indiana Tech women's soccer program from 2007 to 2022. Under his leadership, the Warriors saw consistent improvement and success, including a WHAC Conference and Tournament runner-up finish in 2012, multiple All-Region and Player of the Year honors, and several program records. He was named Indiana Tech Coach of the Year in both 2014 and 2018 and remains the winningest coach in program history.

Bethel College Athletic Director Tim Swartzendruber expressed his enthusiasm about the hire, stating,

"We are thrilled to add Coach Lipocky to Thresher Nation. To get a coach with his experience and success at this late date is awesome. He is a relationship builder, outstanding recruiter, and known for being someone who goes the extra mile for his players and his fellow workers. Thresher women's soccer is in good hands."

Lipocky holds multiple coaching certifications, including the USSF 'C' License and several diplomas from United Soccer Coaches, including Mental Performance Training. His coaching philosophy centers on providing meaningful experiences through soccer that help athletes grow both on and off the field.