SPECIAL TO HBCU GAMEDAY
Jacksonville, Fla. — HBCU Edward Waters College (EWU) Athletics has introduced the appointment of Brian Jenkins as interim head soccer coach, efficient instantly, because the Tigers put together for a extremely anticipated 2025 soccer season.
Jenkins has served as affiliate head coach and offensive coordinator for the Tigers since 2021, taking part in a pivotal position within the crew’s offensive improvement and tradition of competitiveness. A veteran chief with greater than twenty years of collegiate teaching expertise, Jenkins is a seasoned determine in HBCU soccer with a confirmed championship pedigree. From 2010 to 2014, Jenkins served as head coach at Bethune-Cookman College, the place he guided the Wildcats to 4 Mid-Jap Athletic Convention (MEAC) championships, three NCAA FCS playoff appearances, and a 46–14 general file. He was named MEAC Coach of the 12 months in 2012. Jenkins later led the soccer program at Alabama State College and held high-level teaching roles at Rutgers College, the College of Louisville, Bowling Inexperienced State College, and Western Kentucky College.
“We’re assured in Coach Jenkins’ capability to guide our program with integrity, self-discipline, and imaginative and prescient,” stated Ashley Conner, Deputy Director of Athletics. “He has earned the belief of our student-athletes and workers, and we’re excited in regards to the management he brings into this transitional chapter for Edward Waters soccer.”
Coach Jenkins assumes the position following the departure of Toriano Morgan, who led the Tigers program since 2021. Edward Waters College extends its honest appreciation to Coach Morgan for his service, management, and contributions over the previous 4 seasons. His efforts helped lay the groundwork for the continuing progress of EWU soccer, and the College needs him continued success in his future endeavors.
The 2025 season arrives throughout a interval of historic progress for EWU Athletics. Edward Waters is the one NCAA Division II Traditionally Black Faculty or College (HBCU) within the State of Florida, having earned full NCAA membership in July 2024—a transformational milestone within the College’s 159-year legacy.
Over the previous 4 years, Edward Waters College has made vital and sustained investments in its soccer program, together with:
Development of the College’s first-ever on-campus soccer stadium (2021), which encompasses a turf taking part in floor, fan facilities, and stays the most recent soccer stadium within the SIAC convention.
Completion of a brand new state-of-the-art weight room and athletic coaching advanced (2023).
Development of recent soccer locker room amenities which can be scheduled to debut later this week.
Enlargement of soccer teaching, compliance, and recruiting workers and budgets; and
Greater than a doubling of football-specific athletic scholarships since 2021
These enhancements replicate the College’s deep dedication to constructing a first-class, student-centered soccer program, grounded in each educational excellence and excessive on-field championship-level success.
The Tigers will open the 2025 season on the street below the lights in opposition to Savannah State College on August thirtieth. They are going to then return residence to face the defending SIAC champion, Miles Faculty, on September sixth, earlier than internet hosting the reigning CIAA champion and perennial Division II energy, Virginia Union College, on September thirteenth. One of many season’s most anticipated matchups follows on September twentieth, when the Tigers journey to Daytona Seaside to face Bethune-Cookman College—a program as soon as led by Coach Jenkins himself. EWU will shut out the month with a house matchup in opposition to Morehouse Faculty on September twenty seventh.
After a bye week, October brings a mixture of difficult street and residential contests, starting with a go to to Kentucky State College on October eleventh. The Tigers then host SIAC foe Benedict Faculty on October 18th as a follow-up to final yr’s heartbreaking thriller match-up in Columbia. The month concludes with a visit to Clark Atlanta on October 25. In November, Edward Waters will host Central State College on November 1st in what guarantees to be a marquee homecoming environment earlier than closing the common season on the street at Allen College for the sixth Annual AME Soccer Basic in South Carolina on November eighth.
Including to the preseason pleasure, 5 Edward Waters student-athletes have been named final week to the 2025 SIAC Preseason All-Convention Staff. Honorees embody Desmon Self (offensive line), Makai Lovett (vast receiver), Johntarrious Thomas (working again), Brady Tillman (kick returner), and Tyreese Williams (defensive position). Their recognition speaks to the expertise, preparation, and aggressive spirit that may outline this yr’s squad.
With skilled management, upgraded infrastructure, and a robust nucleus of returning expertise, Edward Waters College enters the 2025 season with confidence, momentum, and a dedication to continued excellence in intercollegiate soccer.
Media Contact:Edward Waters College Division of Intercollegiate AthleticsEmail: athletics@ewc.eduPhone: (904) 470-8276
About Edward Waters College:
Edward Waters College, established in 1866, is Florida’s first unbiased establishment of upper studying and first Traditionally Black Faculty or College (HBCU). Positioned in Jacksonville, EWU is a proud member of NCAA Division II and the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Convention (SIAC).