North Dakota State College of Science (NDSCS) is thrilled to announce Steven Ness as the first Head Women’s Soccer Coach, marking an exciting chapter in the college’s athletic history. With the establishment of its first-ever soccer program, NDSCS is setting the stage for an exciting addition to its athletic offerings, which will officially kick off in August 2025. 

Ness brings a wealth of coaching experience and a deep passion for the sport to this new role. Ness has dedicated nearly a decade to coaching soccer at various levels, including his most recent position as Assistant Varsity and JV Co-Head Coach at Hillcrest Lutheran Academy. Prior to that, he served as Varsity Head Boys Soccer Coach at Kennedy Secondary School, where he was instrumental in developing a robust soccer culture, implementing leadership training programs, and fostering a supportive team environment. 

In addition to his coaching credentials, Ness has held roles as a referee and referee coordinator for the Fergus Falls Youth Soccer Association, further emphasizing his commitment to the sport's growth in his community. His extensive background in team management, program development, and player leadership aligns perfectly with the college’s vision for building a competitive and inclusive soccer program. 

"Building this new Women's Soccer Program is a thrilling step forward for our college and community. It opens doors to transformative opportunities, fostering innovation, education, and collaboration. I’m excited about the positive impact this will have on our student-athletes, faculty, and the community we proudly serve," Ness said. 

NDSCS President Dr. Rod Flanigan also expressed his excitement about the new program. "The launch of our women’s soccer program marks a significant milestone in NDSCS’s history, and we couldn’t be more excited to have Steven leading the way. His extensive experience, passion for the sport, and commitment to student-athlete development make him the ideal person to build this program from the ground up," Flanigan said. 

The women’s soccer program at NDSCS will provide new opportunities for student-athletes to excel both on and off the field while continuing the college’s tradition of offering diverse and enriching extracurricular opportunities. Recruitment efforts are underway, with plans to build a competitive roster that embodies the college’s core values of teamwork, dedication, and success. 

For more information about the NDSCS Women’s Soccer program or to inquire about recruitment opportunities, visit NDSCSwildcats.com or contact Reggie Jackson, NDSCS Athletic Director.