Bradley University announced this week that Matt Blackford will take the helm of its Women’s Soccer Premier Club Team, bringing a proven track record of leadership and mentorship to the program.
A Proven Track Record
Blackford arrives after a distinguished 12‑year stint at Peoria Notre Dame, where he served as director of athletics and head coach of the girls’ soccer team, guiding the program to eleven conference titles.
During his tenure, the team captured a dozen conference championships, cementing his reputation as one of the most successful coaches in Central Illinois.
Currently serving as Director of Development at Bradley, Blackford has been instrumental in shaping the university’s athletic strategy and fostering student‑athlete growth.
His hiring follows closely on the heels of the university’s recent appointment of Maddy Maloof as head coach of the women’s hockey program, underscoring a period of strategic leadership upgrades across Bradley’s sports offerings.
The Premier Club Team, known for competing at the highest level of youth soccer in the region, is expected to benefit from Blackford’s emphasis on technical development, tactical awareness, and character building.
University officials highlighted his ability to mentor young athletes, noting that his experience will help the program maintain its competitive edge and pursue championship aspirations.