TAKING THE REINS. Matt O’Dell will become the next head coach of Sullivan’s boys soccer program. Submitted photo
MATT O'DELL is pictured huddled with the junior varsity Lady Eagles. Photo by Wyatt Hardy
Sullivan Names Matt O’Dell As New Head Boys Soccer Coach
Sullivan High School is pleased to announce that Matt O’Dell has been selected to be the next head boys soccer coach. O’Dell is also an assistant girls soccer coach and currently teaches as a social studies teacher at Sullivan High School.
O’Dell graduated from Sullivan High School in the class of 2009. After graduation, he went to St. Louis Christian College and received his Bachelor’s degree in Student Ministry and Biblical Studies. Later, he obtained his Master’s Degree in Secondary Education from Grand Canyon University and is currently finishing his Educational Leadership Specialist from Northwest Missouri State. O’Dell played competitive soccer for 18 years, including at SHS and St. Louis Christian College. Additionally, he was the boys head coach at Greensburg High School (Indiana), assistant coach at Estero High School (Florida) and assistant at Laquey High School (Missouri).
In 2022, Coach O’Dell returned home to Sullivan High School and has been an assistant for the boys and girls soccer programs. When asked about being the head coach at Sullivan, O’Dell said, “I look forward to continuing to foster the growth of the program established by head coaches before me. Brian Immekus has left an impact on these boys’ lives, and it’s an honor to carry that torch. Sullivan soccer is on the rise, and I am excited to take it into the next chapter. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to give back to the community that has given me so much. I’d like to thank all the coaches I have worked with and played under for all the things I’ve learned, and my family for the support.” Activities Director Cody Davis said, “Coach O’Dell brings a passion to continue building the boys soccer program. He has a knack for building relationships with players and the community. I look forward to his service as the head coach.”
The Eagles will look to build on their 2024-2025 campaign, which saw them go 9-16. They will begin 2025 action in the St. Pius X (Festus) Jamboree on August 25th.