SPORTS: Meet the Coaches

Introducing the 2025 season’s soccer coaching staff

Griffin McDonnell, Reporter • 42 Views

September 26, 2025

On the sidelines, coach Daniel Schoettmer discusses strategy with freshman Hoyt Jeter during the JV game against Shawnee Heights.

Leona Randall

Coach Heck

Newly appointed varsity head coach Tyson Heck is entering his third year coaching the boys’ soccer team. After the resignation of former head coach Joseph Waldron, Tyson Heck was promoted from being the C-Team coach for two seasons.

Following last season’s 8-8-1 finish, Heck said he wants to create a team with a tight bond that will be competitive every game.

“I want to develop a program that is proud to be Free State soccer. Teams that quite literally bond so deep they look like a family in the halls and in our community.” Heck said, “It’s long overdue for the soccer program at Free State to be one that is recognized as one of the teams you only want to play because you know you will have the best competitive game of the season.”

Coach Skinner

Entering his fourth year with the team, Assistant Varsity Coach Simon Skinner will enter this season with a new head coach by his side.

Skinner said his biggest strength in coaching is his ability to get his players to be well-equipped decision makers rather than being dependent on a coach.

“I believe it’s my job as a coach to help equip my team and players to function on the pitch at the highest level of independence possible. I make it my goal to help my players become constant, well-equipped problem solvers rather than being dependent on someone barking orders at them.” Skinner said, “I want them to have countless opportunities for decision-making in training, along with all the failures and successes that go along with those opportunities, so that they can thrive within the inevitable chaos of a soccer game.”

About the Contributors

Griffin McDonnell, Reporter

Griffin is a sophomore and is entering his second year on staff as a reporter. Outside of journalism, he plays basketball for Free State and enjoys watching sports. Outside of school, he loves hanging out with family and friends.

Leona Randall, Photographer

Leona is a sophomore and photographer for Free State Journalism. Outside of journalism, she is a member of Free State Orchestra. In her free time, Leona enjoys reading.

Donate to Free Press Online

$100

$1500

Contributed

Our Goal

Your donation will support the student journalists of Lawrence Free State High School. Your contribution will allow us to purchase equipment and cover our annual website hosting costs.