Davidson Day names new boys' soccer coach

Davidson Day School has selected Josh Wagner as its new head boys soccer coach. The former collegiate soccer standout comes to Davidson Day following a stint as head coach for the North Mecklenburg boys' junior varsity soccer team (2008-2010), where the team finished last season with an impressive 21-8-1 record.

“There are few teachers and coaches who are more engaged in the Lake Norman youth athletic community than Josh Wagner,” Davidson Day Athletic Director Kevin Buechler said. “He is a rising star in scholastic soccer at the high school, middle school, and youth levels. So many of our elementary aged students know and love Mr. Wagner for his teaching. We are extremely excited to see him build a program based on integrity, diligence, and a passion for the game.”

When it comes to soccer, Wagner is a very popular figure in the Lake Norman area. In addition to his coaching duties at North Mecklenburg, he is also the head boys soccer coach at Bailey Middle School, where he started the program from the ground up (2006-present). He also is a recreation coordinator for the Town of Davidson Parks and Recreation, where he plays a key role in facilitating soccer camps throughout the year (2006-present)

"Words cannot explain how excited I am to join the Davidson Day family. To finally begin my dream of running a varsity program; with my philosophy of the game, and applying it at such a high level of play,” said Wagner. “I have been waiting for this position for two years now. The timing is perfect, and the potential of this soccer program has no boundaries."

With soccer being a clear passion for Wagner, it wasn’t the only factor that attracted him to Davidson Day. “What attracted me the most to Davidson Day was the philosophy of the school and the passion for not just athletics, but also academics. The opportunity to have full support from the administration is something I couldn’t ignore. I live in this community, and have a vested interest, so what better way to continue to impact this community in such a positive way and to mold future leaders than to be at Davidson Day School.”

A native of Rochester, NY, Wagner earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Health and Physical Education from Baptist Bible College (Clarks Summit, PA) in 2003. While at Baptist Bible College, he was a four-year starter for the men’s soccer team. During his junior and senior year, he led the team to an East Regional Championship.