Derek Helmer, the longtime head coach of Edgewood University women's soccer, revealed that the upcoming 2025 season will mark the end of his tenure, bringing a close to a seven‑year chapter that reshaped the program.
Since taking the helm in 2019, Helmer compiled a 60‑win record, guided the Eagles back to the Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference Tournament on four occasions, and in 2025 led the team to the conference semifinal while posting its highest win total since 2013.
A Legacy of Leadership
Under his guidance, the squad produced three First‑Team, six Second‑Team and nine Honorable Mention All‑NACC selections, alongside two All‑Region honorees, underscoring the depth of talent he cultivated.
Athletics Director Nick Pasquarello lauded Helmer’s impact, noting that his influence extended beyond the women's side as he also steered the men's program for four seasons and contributed as a player and student‑athlete at Edgewood, where he played under coach Tim Alexander, a two‑time All‑Lake Michigan Conference selection.
Search for a New Era
The university has launched a national search to identify Helmer’s successor, aiming to preserve the competitive momentum and community spirit he established over his decade‑long involvement with Edgewood athletics.