Bio

Luke Babson joins North Idaho College as the new Head Women's Soccer Coach ahead of the 2026-27 season.

With a career defined by rapid program transformations, elite player development, and a relentless passion for the beautiful game, Luke Babson has established himself as a dynamic coach within the collegiate ranks. Babson steps into the role of Head Women’s Soccer Coach at North Idaho College, bringing a wealth of experience ranging from the NJCAA and NCAA Division II levels to the professional development ranks of the USL.

Holding a UEFA B Coaching License via the Welsh FA, Babson pairs international tactical standards with a high-energy, player-centric leadership style. His career college head coaching record of 32-16-3 (.656 winning percentage) is a testament to his ability to implement winning cultures quickly and effectively. 

Most recently, Babson led Heartland Community College (2024-2025). As the Head Coach for both the Men’s and Women’s programs, he guided the women’s team to a 17-4-1 record and an NJCAA D2 National Runner-Up finish in 2025. His impact on the sideline was recognized with both Region and District Coach of the Year honors, but his true legacy lies in the development of his players. Under his guidance, the program produced four All-Americans. Babson’s offensive systems proved to be one of the most lethal in the country, as he coached Valeria Agudelo to lead the nation in goals scored and Karima Marhabi to lead the nation in assists.

Babson’s reputation as a "program builder" was solidified during his tenure at Southwestern Oregon Community College (2021-2022). Inheriting a men’s program that had struggled through a 1-11 season, he orchestrated one of the most significant turnarounds in college soccer. In short order, he led the team to a 9-3-2 record and secured the first NWAC Play-Off win in program history. His ability to instill belief in his players and revitalize a culture from the ground up remains a hallmark of his coaching philosophy.

Before his head coaching successes, Babson spent seven years (2011-2018) as the Assistant Women’s Soccer Coach at Western Oregon University (NCAA D2). During this time, he was instrumental in all facets of the program, particularly in the identification and recruitment of high-level talent that earned numerous GNAC All-League and Newcomer of the Year honors.

His influence extends far beyond the college touchline. Babson has been a fixture in the elite youth and semi-professional landscape, serving in key leadership roles including:

*   Head Coach: PDX FC (USL League 2)
*   Sporting Director: Portland Bangers
*   Head Coach: Portland Timbers Boys RTC & Portland Thorns ODP
*   Age Group Coordinator: Oregon Surf
*   Club Coach: Eastside Timbers

Luke Babson approaches every training session and match with a simple goal: to help student-athletes be the best version of themselves. Whether he is guiding a team to a national final or helping a player earn All-American honors, his focus remains on the growth of the individual and the unity of the group. 

As he leads North Idaho College into its next chapter, Babson continues to combine a humble, "work-first" mentality with the tactical sophistication required to guide the program to new heights.