Jason Murphy, the head soccer coach at the University of Wisconsin‑La Crosse, has been appointed to the NCAA Division II and III Men’s and Women’s Soccer Rules Committee, a nine‑member panel that steers rule development for the sport at the Division II and III levels.
A Coach With Deep Roots in Wisconsin Soccer
His term, which begins on September 1, 2026 and will run through August 2029, places him among four representatives from Division II and four from Division III, with each division split evenly between men’s and women’s soccer interests. An additional member will serve as secretary‑rules editor.
Murphy, now in his 13th season with the Eagles, brings a career record of 173 wins, 46 losses and 26 ties, a .759 winning percentage that ties the school’s all‑time mark. Under his guidance the program has captured seven WIAC regular‑season titles and six conference tournament championships, and has earned eight appearances in the NCAA Division III Tournament, including three trips to the national quarterfinals.
Implications for the WIAC and Student‑Athletes
The committee’s mandate is to review existing regulations, propose modifications and ensure that rule changes serve the best interests of student‑athletes across the divisions. Murphy’s elevation to this governance role reflects his longstanding influence within the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference and his reputation as a thoughtful advocate for the game.
Beyond wins and accolades, Murphy has mentored 68 All‑WIAC honorees, amassed 11 All‑America selections and guided his teams to 31 Academic All‑Region commendations, underscoring a commitment to both athletic and scholarly excellence.
Looking Ahead
The upcoming 2026 season will open on September 1 against Carroll University (Wis.), a match that will mark Murphy’s first official engagement with the NCAA committee while still leading his squad on the field. Murphy expressed enthusiasm about representing UW‑La Crosse and the WIAC on a national stage, noting that the experience will allow him to bring a regional perspective to rule discussions that affect thousands of collegiate athletes. His appointment signals a continued effort to blend competitive integrity with the academic mission of Division II and III programs.