North Michigan News

The NMU men's soccer team has announced the appointment of two former student-athletes to its coaching staff for the 2024 season: goalkeeper coach Bryce Beckley and volunteer coach Keegan Schmidt.

"We are pleased to welcome back two fantastic former Wildcats, Bryce and Keegan, to our 2024 staff," said head coach Alex Fatovic. "These are two massive signings for us as we continue to professionalize our staff, and also a great sign of the environment we are creating when alumni want to come back to help our program succeed."

Bryce Beckley joins the Wildcats as a goalkeeper coach. He took over the Wildcat net halfway through the 2023 campaign, starting in six matches and recording 30 saves, posting two shutouts, and a 1.50 GAA in those matches.

Before NMU, the Waterford, Wisconsin native began his collegiate career with two seasons at Wisconsin Lutheran College as a primary goalkeeper, where he played in 27 matches over two seasons.

A two-year letter-winner and four-year honor roll student in high school, Beckley was a WSCA All-State selection, a First and Second Team All-Southern Lakes Conference selection, and a team captain in his junior and senior years.

"Bryce showed us great potential in the spring as he transitioned from player to coach and we look forward to having consistency at the goalkeeper coach position. He'll have a big job managing five very good goalkeepers as well as the women's core, but he's more than up to it. Welcome, Bryce!" added Fatovic.

Keegan Schmidt joins the Wildcats as a volunteer coach. He spent the previous five seasons as a consistent face in the Green and Gold lineup.

A key player for the Wildcats during his time at NMU, Schmidt became the program record holder in career games played. A driving force on defense, Schmidt was named GLIAC Honorable Mention this past season after recording 1,259 minutes played as a starter in 15 of 16 matches.

Prior to NMU, the Bettendorf, Iowa native was a two-time Player of the Year while playing with Iowa City Alliance and Sporting Iowa East and was an All-Academic All-District selection.

"Mr. Wildcat and all-time appearance leader Keegan Schmidt will bring huge energy and passion to every session, workout recovery, and game. Keegan is passionate about fitness, health, and well-being and will play a large role in how we manage and maintain our fitness and match readiness. Welcome back, Keegan!" concluded Fatovic.