West Central Reporter

The Western Illinois University (WIU) women's soccer program has appointed Ross Henderson as its new head coach. Henderson is expected to play a significant role in revitalizing the team.

"I am incredibly thankful and proud to be given this opportunity to become a part of Western Illinois Athletics and become a Leatherneck," said Head Coach Ross Henderson. "I am eager to get into the Spring semester with the team and get the ball rolling. The platform for us to succeed is there thanks to previous leadership, the department is one that fits in with my aspirations and values in coaching and in life, which is what drew me to the department knowing it is one we can succeed in."

Henderson comes from Clayton State University (CSU), where he served as Head Women's Soccer Coach from 2021-2024. Under his leadership, CSU's Lakers achieved their highest number of wins since 2019 during the 2024 season and matched their record for fewest losses with an 8-3-6 record.

"Coach Henderson's experience, both as a player and as a head coach, were high on my criteria when seeking the person to lead our program," said Director of Athletics Paul A. Bubb. "His commitment to excellence and passion for the sport, I believe, will help us reach our goals as a member of the Ohio Valley Conference and establish our program within the league and region."

Henderson was officially named CSU's sixth head women's soccer coach in December 2021 after serving as interim head coach earlier that year. He previously worked as an assistant coach for three seasons at CSU. He holds a UEFA B-License Diploma from Berlin, Germany.

During his time at CSU, Henderson's team won several accolades including nine CSC Academic All-District Selections, seven All-Conference Players awards, two D2CCA All-Southeast Region Selections, two United Soccer Coaches All-Southeast Region Selections, one D2CCA All-America Selection, one National Player of the Week award, and one Elite 16 Award Winner.

Before coaching at Clayton State University, Henderson played professionally for Myrtle Beach Mutiny in the National Premier Soccer League (NPSL) from 2014 to 2017. He helped lead them to three consecutive South Atlantic Division Championships between 2014 and 2016.

Henderson also played collegiate soccer at Erskine College from 2012 to 2015 where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in psychology with a minor in business administration. He was recognized as an All-Conference Carolina selection three times during his college career.

For more information on WIU Leatherneck Women's Soccer updates can be found on GoLeathernecks.com or through their social media platforms.