The Iowa High School Soccer Coaches Association is proud to recognize the recipients of the 2026 Coaches of the Year and Assistant Coaches of the Year awards. These individuals exemplify excellence in coaching, leadership, player development, and service to the game of soccer in Iowa. Whether leading a program from the sidelines or providing invaluable support behind the scenes, each honoree has made a lasting impact on their student-athletes, schools, and communities. Through their dedication, mentorship, and commitment to excellence, they have helped elevate their programs while positively influencing the lives of countless players both on and off the field.

Head Coaches of the Year

Congratulations to the Girls Coach of the Year, Megan Hesson of Vinton-Shellsburg (1A), and the Boys Coach of the Year, John Mullins of Urbandale (4A).

Megan Hesson has transformed Vinton-Shellsburg into one of Iowa's most respected girls soccer programs. During the 2026 season, the Vikings compiled a 12-2-1 record and captured the WaMaC Conference championship with an outstanding 10-0-1 conference mark.

What makes Vinton-Shellsburg's success especially noteworthy is the program's ability to compete at a high level despite being located in a rural community without the concentration of high-level club soccer players found in many larger programs. Under Hesson's leadership, the Vikings have consistently exceeded expectations and established themselves as perennial contenders.

Over her career, Hesson has accumulated an 83-58-11 record, including a remarkable 64-31-3 mark over the past six seasons. Beyond the varsity level, she has been instrumental in growing and developing youth soccer opportunities within the Vinton community, creating a foundation for sustained success and fostering a passion for the game among future generations of players.

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John Mullins guided Urbandale to a successful return back into Class 4A following the program's 2025 Class 3A State Championship season. Facing the challenge of competing once again in Iowa's largest classification, the J-Hawks responded with an impressive 11-2-3 record, with their only losses and draws coming against highly ranked opponents.

Urbandale finished the season among Iowa's elite programs, earning a Top-4 final ranking and positioned itself near the top of the rankings all season. The seamless transition back to Class 4A and continued success following a state championship run are a testament to Mullins' leadership, program culture, and ability to consistently develop high-performing teams.

Prior to his tenure at Urbandale, Mullins built a successful coaching career at Dowling Catholic, further solidifying his reputation as one of Iowa's premier high school soccer coaches.

Assistant Coaches of the Year

Congratulations to the Girls Assistant Coach of the Year, Ben Vonheeder of  Norwalk (2A), and the Boys Assistant Coach of the Year, Josh Giddings of Decorah (3A).

Ben Vonheeder has made significant impacts on the Norwalk girls soccer program through his leadership and dedication as a JV coach. Over the past three seasons, his junior varsity teams have compiled undefeated records in back-to-back-to-back seasons, creating a culture of development and success that has strengthened the entire program.

Now in his fourth year with Norwalk, Vonheeder has consistently prepared players for advancement to the varsity level while fostering a positive and competitive environment. His ability to develop talent and maintain high standards has contributed to the long-term success and depth of the Norwalk girls soccer program.

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Josh Giddings has been an invaluable member of the Decorah boys soccer program, helping guide the Vikings to a 12-3 regular season record. Serving as a volunteer assistant coach, Giddings stepped into an expanded leadership role when the head coach was unavailable, assuming coaching responsibilities for approximately one-quarter of the season and posting a 3-1 record during that stretch.

In addition to game-day leadership, Giddings successfully organized and led training sessions during key portions of the season, ensuring the team remained prepared for important matches. His influence extends well beyond the soccer field. He has spearheaded fundraising initiatives within the program and played a significant role in helping the school's athletic department remodel its strength and conditioning facilities.

Giddings is also a tireless advocate for player development, regularly helping athletes identify offseason playing opportunities and connecting them with coaches who can further their growth. His commitment to the success of both the program and its players makes him highly deserving of this recognition.