RAINSVILLE — On the heels of its announcement of a new softball program, including a facility/stadium, Northeast Alabama Community College is further growing its athletics program.
This week, the Mustangs announced the hiring of Tom Shanklin as the head coach for the college’s first men’s soccer program.
Men’s soccer is set to begin play in 2025, and construction will begin soon on a soccer stadium, the school said. This milestone marks an expansion of the Mustangs’ athletic programs that include men’s and women’s cross country, men’s and women’s golf, women’s softball, and Esports.
“We at Northeast are very pleased to hire Tom Shanklin,” said NACC President Dr. David Campbell. “He is a proven coach who has a great reputation for the way he develops players as people.
“Under Coach Shanklin’s leadership, our program has limitless potential.”
Shanklin is a graduate of Fort Payne High School and coached at his alma mater.
Known for his dedication to player development, teamwork, and sportsmanship, Shanklin said he is poised to lay a strong foundation for the men’s soccer program.
“I feel honored that Northeast has chosen to entrust me to begin what I hope to be a long and successful soccer program at the college,” said Shanklin. “The environment that surrounds NACC, from the administration to the staff and students is electric.
“I am excited to bring the culture I’ve built coaching soccer and apply it to the men’s Mustang soccer program at Northeast.”
The Mustangs will begin play in 2025 on campus and construction on the college’s soccer field will begin soon, the school said. The soccer facility will be adjacent to the women’s softball stadium, and along with the walking trail, will create a sports complex on the campus.
“We are excited about the future of our Men’s soccer program,” said Northeast Athletic Director Jimmy Kolaitis.” “Coach Shanklin is a proven coach in this area, and he is very well respected by the community. Not only is Tom a proven winner, but he is also a great leader for young athletes.”
Shanklin has been the head soccer coach at Fort Payne since 2011. He led the Wildcats to three state championships and 11 regional championships while compiling a record of 216-73-19.
A native of Miami, Fla., Shanklin has lived in the Fort Payne area most of his life. He was a member of the first soccer program at Fort Payne High School.
He has been a soccer coach for more than 20 years, including a stint with the DeKalb County Inferno as the Director of Coaching in 2021 and 2022.
NACC will be releasing more information about the soccer program, including a team roster, schedule, and more in the future. Follow Northeast Athletics on social media to stay up to date on the latest information.
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