Meet the Coach: Men's Soccer, Luke Redmond

Penn State Schuylkill is excited to welcome Dr. Luke Redmond as the new head coach of the men's soccer team. While many on campus already know him as a dedicated biology professor, Redmond has been part of the Penn State Schuylkill community since 2015 and earned tenure in 2022. Now, he is stepping into a new role that brings his passion for soccer to a different part of campus life.

"I've been coaching soccer for about 10 years," Redmond said. "I was in the gym one day practicing by myself, and Bryan Valentine saw me and mentioned there was an opening. He said I should apply, so I did."

Redmond, who also plays in an adult men's soccer league, brings a mix of personal playing experience and coaching knowledge to the position. His focus as head coach goes beyond just athletic performance. He emphasizes the value of teamwork, academic success, and personal growth.

"My goal is to put together a team, not just a group of players, that finds success on the field and does well in the classroom," he said.

In his first meeting with the team, Redmond outlined his priorities in a clear order: academics, team, and soccer. With more than 20 years in higher education, he understands the importance of balancing athletic and academic commitments.

"I want my players to do well in the classroom because that will be more important for them in terms of whatever career they are trying to get into," Redmond explained.

When evaluating players, Redmond looks for more than skill. He values a willingness to learn, a strong work ethic, and respect for teammates. "I hope student-athletes take away the importance of hard work, setting goals, and maintaining a balance between athletics and academics," he said.

One of his favorite soccer memories comes from a tournament with another team he has coached since 2020. The team was down 0–2 early in the first game, but instead of panicking, they fought back to earn a draw and later won the tournament.

"That memory stands out because of the resilience the team showed," Redmond said. "I was so proud of them."

Redmond's own academic journey was shaped by a mentor at the University of Michigan-Flint, where he earned his degree in biology. He credits Dr. Gary Pace, a professor who inspired him to take his studies seriously, as one of the most influential people in his life.

"If I hadn't met him, I would be doing something entirely different today," Redmond said. "My life would look very different. I definitely would not be here at Penn State Schuylkill."

Outside of coaching and teaching, Redmond enjoys spending time outdoors, especially fishing. "Fishing is probably my favorite hobby," he said. "I even have a YouTube channel where I share some of my fishing trips."

As the new season approaches, Coach Redmond is ready to get started and is proud to represent a campus he's called home for a decade.

"I'm excited to be a part of Penn State Schuylkill in a new way," he said. "There will be challenges, but we will face them together and grow as a team."

To learn more about the Penn State Schuylkill men's soccer program, email Coach Luke Redmond at ljr5322@psu.edu.