Assistant Coach

Colby Thomas, Assistant Men’s Soccer Coach, is a dedicated coach driven by a passion for shaping young men into athletes and principled individuals. Thomas earned dual certifications in Early Education and Special Education from Messiah College, where his time as a student-athlete profoundly influenced his coaching philosophy and personal values. Inspired by the opportunity to impact young men as future husbands, friends, and fathers, Thomas pursued coaching to build character, discipline, and faith in his players during their formative years. His journey to Nelson University began after moving to Arizona two years ago for a coaching and sports ministry role at Christ's Church of the Valley (CCV), where connections with Head Coach Barry Swartz opened the door to join Nelson’s soccer program. The alignment of Nelson’s mission with his own personal beliefs made it an ideal fit. Thomas integrates Christian values into his coaching by emphasizing servant leadership, humility, and character development over mere results. Drawing from his Messiah College experience, he fosters a team culture rooted in faith, trust, and accountability, encouraging players to pursue technical excellence and grit while growing as men of integrity and purpose. His approach balances high standards with grace, reflecting lessons learned at Messiah about discipline and vulnerability. Thomas’s coaching journey includes roles as an assistant men’s soccer coach at Southern Wesleyan University in 2018 and Keystone College in 2022. As a player, he excelled at Messiah College, contributing to the 2017 NCAA DIII National Championship and earning All-American honors. He also played professionally for Stode IF in Sweden’s Division 2 (Norrland) and 3rd Division from 2018 to 2020. At Nelson, Thomas works to inspire and mentor, helping build a program that prioritizes both athletic and personal growth.