The MCAA program has been a wonderful learning experience. The program as a whole has helped me learn more about myself as a person and as a coach. Each class that I have taken has taught me something new and useful going forward into my coaching career.

Brandon Funk
Volunteer Assistant Men’s Basketball Coach at University of Montevallo, Montevallo, Alabama

The MCAA program was a wonderful program that helped me complete my degree through very accessible long distance professors and advisors. Since the completion of my degree, I have been able to use the lessons I learned to improve my teaching and coaching practice in many ways, starting with the most important: building relationships. I have also been able to use my degree to start me on a path towards a becoming an athletic director.

Adam Hrnicek
Kodiak, AK

The instructors have genuinely cared about my advancement….They have pushed my thinking and forced me to evaluate my coaching styles, motivational tactics, ethics in sports, and overall character. The admissions counselors, advisors, and coaches...have allowed me to broaden my coaching philosophies and become a better all-around person and basketball coach.

Katherine Fonseca
Tonopah Valley High School, Tonopah, Arizona

I have learned and retained so much information, an abundance of skills, and lessons at Concordia that will last a lifetime.

Brandon West '15
Little Rock, AR

The information and skills I have accumulated over the course of the program have provided me with essential tools to improve as both a coach and as an individual. Most importantly, the MCAA program has reinforced my passion for coaching.

Waylon Prather
Cabrillo Community College, Aptos, California

I feel very lucky to have been enrolled at Concordia University Irvine and I strongly suggest other people to begin their master’s there.

Abigail Simpson

My experience in the MCAA program has been nothing short of amazing. I have learned so much this past year and...I am a better, much more reflective coach. My teams have had some tremendous success through this process and I owe a big part to the MCAA program.

Walter Hansen '14

Many of the professors went out of their way to communicate with me and make sure that I stayed on track.

David S. Lee '16
Wilmington, DE

Loved the program just the way it is.

William Rodish '12

The MCAA program is certainly unique in that the instructors are coaches and former athletes. It is without question that enrolling in the MCAA program has increased my ability to lead and become a better person. I regard this program with high esteem and consider enrolling in the program one of the most impactful events of my life.

Bart Sasnett
Darton State College, Albany, Georgia

I would recommend the [MCAA] program to any coach or athletic administrator. The professional development gained from the program and portfolio has given me confidence to effectively lead and develop athletes and athletic staff.

Kenoi I. Haole
Hanalani Schools, Mililani, Hawaii

I am extremely obliged to the Concordia Masters in Coaching and Athletic Administration program for the constant supervision of all staff members, as well as providing helpful information for my future in the sports business.

Allison James
Nampa High School, Nampa, Idaho

The MCAA program has benefited me greatly as it has widened my perspective on coaching at the collegiate level, and challenged me to prepare more thoroughly for all aspects of building a successful soccer program.

Samuel Mahtani
Illinois Olympic Development Program, Normal, IL; Trinity Christian College, Palos Heights, IL

The Concordia University Irvine Masters of Coaching and Athletics Administration program has been a challenging, rewarding and fun experience. I have learned a great deal about how a coaching style or philosophy can and will change as the years go on; at the same time it’s still important to evaluate and make adjustments to who you are as a coach and mentor.

Michael Dennis
Jeffersonville High School, Jeffersonville, Indiana

The timely service of everyone involved in the MCAA program at Concordia is second to none. Everyone has been extremely helpful, genuine, and understanding of individual needs and circumstances. Each course has helped me improve as a professional teacher and coach and has in turn made me a more valuable asset to the athletes I serve.

Clint Manny
Head Wrestling Coach at Indianola High School, Indianola, Iowa

You have been some of the best people that I have ever had the pleasure of working with. You are always there to help with anything that might come up and everyone is always so polite and positive.

Nicholas Dowell
East Horton, KS

The flexibility and understanding attitudes of everyone involved in the program confirmed that obtaining the Masters of Arts degree from CUI was an excellent decision.

Andrew M. Gavin '16
Danville, KY

The continuous support that each professor has demonstrated still amazes me today. I could not have imagined a better program to have chosen to further my education.

Jeannie Murphy
Louisiana Tech University, Ruston, Louisiana

They established high expectations while maintaining compassion and understanding of the myriad of demands placed on their students.

Ted Tibbetts '16
Otisfield, ME

The amount of growth I have experienced on a personal level while working through the MCAA program is immeasurable.

Joey Lye
Head Softball Coach at Stevenson University Athletic Department, Owings Mills, Maryland

This has been far more inspiring, educational, and motivating than I ever thought while pursuing my masters later in life. Every professor was always accessible and passionate about their curriculum.

Jennifer O. Kolins '16
Springfield, MA

The experience that I have gained by being able to put into practice what I have learned through the MCAA program has been immeasurable!

Jon Cadwallader '14

I have enjoyed every minute of the program and would recommend it to anyone. I find myself at the precipice of my career, ready to implement all I have learned, imparting not only the knowledge given to me, but the gentle wisdom in which it was taught.

Anthony Wood '14
Hermantown, MN

The program offered me a broad range of courses to suit any sport of interest. It also provided great flexibility in the means by which the program may be completed. The professors and staff provided continued guidance and instruction throughout the program, with great emphasis on my overall learning experience and success.

David Hill Jr.
Holmes Community College, Goodman, MS

Concordia offered me the ability to continue my professional career working in collegiate athletics, while boosting my resume to give me the final step toward finding my dream job.

Caleb Barnes, MA
Head Men and Women’s Tennis Coach
Fitness and Recreation
St. Louis College of Pharmacy

I thank all of my professors at Concordia University Irvine for the time and commitment they have devoted to each student throughout the course of an 11 week course.

Brian Evans '16
Anaconda, MT

As coaches across the country look for a leg up, I believe I found mine in doing my Master’s Degree coursework through Concordia University Irvine. The staff and curriculum has provided a unique opportunity to look at coaching styles and assess what I like and where I need to improve.

Ashton Makovicka '14
Lincoln, NE

I thoroughly enjoyed the curriculum and gained great insight as to how better reach athletes and assist them in achieving their full potential on and off the field of play. The material covered in the courses of study is directly applicable to real life situations and can be used immediately to improve oneself as a coach and a person. The MCAA staff is second to none and I would recommend that anyone looking to improve their coaching acumen and athlete/coach relationships to enroll and pursue the program at Concordia University.

Mike Cofer
San Francisco 49ers
Indianapolis Colts
Varsity Football Coach – Coronado High School Henderson, NV

I received a degree in Coaching and Athletic Administration and it turned out to be the best professional decision I have made. I use the information I learned from the program on a regular basis, teaching and coaching. The information was invaluable, because it opened the door to better communication with my football team, as well as my staff. In addition, the program allowed me to get a certification as an assistant principal. I highly recommend it to anyone interested in gaining more knowledge in the field and using it as a vehicle for more professional opportunities.

Thomas Babaian
Head Football Coach and Physical Education Teacher

In 2011 I embarked on a journey with Concordia University, which has become one of the pivotal points of my life. Since graduating I have become an Assistant Athletic Director. The knowledge I have gained from this program I will carry with me always. The professors are invaluable; the class work is prevalent to real-life situations. I could not have picked a better university. I was able to work full time, coach, and continue my education.

Marybeth Foran '12

Thank you for an outstanding course. It was a challenge this semester with teaching and coaching, but I have learned immense amounts of valuable information and lessons.

Noell Engbers
Rehoboth, NM

The teachers were incredibly insightful and helpful. I would highly recommend this program for anyone who wants to further his or her education in the areas of coaching and leadership.

Adam Turner
Bard College, Annandale-on-Hudson, New York

The MCAA program curriculum has driven my athletic leadership and strengthened my abilities as a coach to empower my players to face life’s challenges and to reach for their goals because the possibilities can accumulate to endless success. The foundations of this program provided an opportunity for advancement in knowledge and coaching career, but in reality fulfilled a lifelong dream.

Andrew Nick
Head Soccer Coach at Rocky Mount High School, Rocky Mount, North Carolina

For years, I have been looking for a way to change careers and get into coaching and athletic administration. The MCAA program has given me that opportunity. With its Christ-centered approach and knowledgeable, experienced faculty, this program was the perfect fit and has given me the tools I need to help build leaders of character through athletics.

Eric Morrow '14

Each course was not only enjoyable, but also productive in increasing my mental, spiritual, and emotional approaches towards teaching and coaching.

Matthew Cluse
Boardman Local School District, Boardman, Ohio

I really enjoyed the curriculum and how tangible and relatable it was to my current and future career. Each professor, advisor, and faculty member made me feel personally important and valuable. They each genuinely cared about where I am at in my life and what I want to pursue.

Aubrey Marselis '17
Owasso, Oklahoma

The knowledge I have obtained through the courses will be instilled in me for years to come, and [has] further prepared me for what I hope is a long and successful career in the field of coaching.

Katherine Girten '13

Deciding to enter this program has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. I have been able to gain a great deal of knowledge and new perspective that will help both personally and professionally for the rest of my life.

Matthew Grandinetti '15

I have undergone a remarkable amount of growth in my coaching career as a direct reflection of my studies in the program at Concordia University. The coursework was relevant to the changing culture in athletics and I found every assignment interesting, engaging, and worthwhile.

Eric C. Blanchard
Assistant to the Director of the Athletic Department at Rhode Island College, Providence, Rhode Island

Your dedication to making each person feel at home and welcome made a huge difference in my enjoyment of the program.

Heather Vahjen '16
Greenwood, SC

The MCAA program at CUI has shown me benefits in many ways. The ideas and skills I learned through the completion of the MCAA program have rolled over into my coaching duties and aided in the continued development of our football and track programs. I was also able to assume the role of Activities Director and increase my teaching salary due to the completion of a graduate degree.

Nathan W. Lamb
K-12 PE/Health/Electives Instructor, Activities Director, Head Football Coach, Ass't Track Coach, Waverly-South Shore School

The experience has truly been invaluable and will continue to play a vital role in my development.

Rebekah (Becky) Atnip ‘13

Concordia’s MCAA program has provided the foundation, knowledge, and experience required to organize and maintain a triumphant basketball program. I have a better understanding of communicating with coaches, players, and parents, which allows me to share the core values, guidelines, and beliefs of my basketball program.

Timothy J. Martin
Alief Elsik High School, Houston, Texas

The MCAA program was the perfect blend for what I wanted; the selection of electives and the opportunity to attend a coach’s academy made it an amazing program.

Andrew Atwood '13
Real Salt Lake Ticket Sales and Fan Relations

The Master’s in Coaching and Athletic Administration (MCAA) taught [me] about unique leadership and administrative skills. During the duration of the program, I had the privilege to grow in coaching as well as an athletic administrator. All of the courses that were taken during the MCAA program were beneficial and rewarding on a personal and professional level.

Chad Bentz
Athletic Director for Addison Rutland Supervisory Union School District, Vermont
Former Major League Baseball pitcher, Chicago White Sox, Florida Marlins, Montreal Expos

The program helped me in numerous ways but one the best parts of the program was that I got to build a network with other coaches from all over the nation.

Mike Rhodes
Defensive Coordinator (football)
Head softball coach
Union High School
Big Stone Gap, Va

Completing the Masters in Coaching and Athletic Administration program through Concordia University Irvine was the best decision of my young career as a teacher and coach. …The MCAA program gave me countless opportunities to learn, reflect, and grow through courses that I truly enjoyed.

Jennifer Allen
Todd Beamer High School, Federal Way, Washington

You have taught me how to define my thoughts and experiences, give them direction, and develop a clearer vision of what I expect of myself and of my career as an athletic administrator. I have a better grasp of coaching and athletic administration as a career and what my role within that field should be, while matching it with my heartfelt desire to impact lives of the student-athletes, coaches, and the leaders of tomorrow.

Jeremiah Davis '17
Bunker Hill, West Virginia

My experience in the MCAA program has truly been a memorable one filled with unforgettable learning experiences, outstanding professors, and a curriculum that has provided me with the tools I needed to better myself as a coach, leader and as a person.

Derek Marie '14

I express my appreciation to the faculty, staff, and students at Concordia University Irvine. Each person with whom I have had contract with has taken the time to get to know me on a personal level.

Shawn Gillum '16
South Elm Street, WY