Brian O’Connor was hired as head coach in August 2018 after three seasons as an assistant with the Prairie Fire. He was an assistant coach with Coach Sheikh for his alma mater, Illinois College, in 2014 when the Blueboys advanced to the Midwest Conference tournament for the first time since 1993.
In 2015 O’Connor translated his experience playing as an attacker in the lower leagues of Germany to help coach Knox’s offensive players. The Prairie Fire ranked third in the country in goals scored per game. They also scored the most goals in program history.
In 2016 O’Connor’s recruiting helped bolster the Prairie Fire’s depth so the team didn’t skip a beat after two record-setting seasons. The result was a team that was one of the best in the region.
A four-year men’s soccer letter winner at Illinois College, O’Connor earned All-Midwest Conference honors as a senior attacking midfielder in 2009 and helped lead the team to its best season in 16 years. He joined the U.S. Army after graduating in 2010 and served tours of duty while stationed in Germany and Afghanistan. O’Connor holds an NSCAA diploma.
- How has your experience coaching/ job changed over time?
It really changes year to year. One of the great/challenging things about college athletics is the turnover from year to year. Each team is always a bit different and forces you to adapt quickly and effectively.
- Why did you choose Knox?
Ultimately, it is an institution that really supports athletics. Knox also attracts an eclectic group of students that makes our program extremely diverse. It creates not only a strong competitive environment but also a unique learning environment.
- If you could coach/work anywhere in the world where would it be?
Glasgow Celtic FC in Scotland.
- What has changed most from being a student to being a coach/working at a college?
The year round nature of programs. When I played in college you had your traditional and non traditional season. Outside of that there wasn’t much support for athletes.
- What do you enjoy most about Division 3?
The ability it gives student-athletes to pursue their interests outside of athletics.
- How has your coaching style changed with different generations of students?
I think this generation really appreciates honesty and coaches being genuine even when conversations are tough. So, those 2 things really drive my coaching style.
- What is one tip you would give an incoming FY?
Make your social circle diverse and don’t be afraid to branch out.
***Story courtesy of Knox College***
