Celebrating the Remarkable Journey of Upper 90 College Client Kristy Helmers: From Talented Forward to Head Coach
Upper 90 College client Kristy Helmers during her time coaching with Friend’s University (NAIA), onto a new journey as the head coach of her alma mater Nicholls State University women’s soccer (NCAA D1)
Thibodaux, LA – It is with immense pride and joy that we celebrate the extraordinary journey of Kristy Helmers, an Upper 90 College client, as she comes full circle in her college soccer career in the USA. From her early days in Canberra, Australia, to her recent appointment as the Head Coach of the Nicholls State University women's soccer team, Kristy's story is one of determination, hard work, and exceptional leadership.
Early Days in Canberra
Kristy Helmers representing her home town club in Canberra, Tuggeranong United FC during her Summer off from the USA college soccer system.
Kristy Helmers grew up in Canberra, where her soccer talents were evident from a young age. She shone brightly as a forward for Tuggeranong United in the Capital Football Women's Premier League, earning the title of MVP in both 2013 and 2014. Her impressive skills on the field also saw her named as a shadow player for the under-19s Australian school girls team in 2013 and 2014. Off the field, Kristy was equally dedicated, winning the All Rounder award and achieving the highest academic scores on her team at Erindale College in 2014.
It was during her time at Erindale College that Upper 90 Founder, John Stevanja, first spotted Kristy's potential. "I remember getting a lead about a super talented young forward at Erindale College," Stevanja recalls. "I spent time watching Kristy, and I saw her traits early on. She was this humble, quiet kid off the field, always polite, always with a smile on her face. But on the pitch, she had this steely resolve. She worked hard, led from the front, and could bang away goals. I knew she was going to be a great fit for the USA college soccer system."
College Career and Beyond
Kristy Helmers during her time with Nicholls State University (NCAA D1) as a player.
Kristy joined Nicholls State University in 2016 as a freshman forward, quickly making her mark on the Colonels with her leadership and dedication. Over her four years at Nicholls, she racked up 3,927 minutes on the field, proving to be an impact player and a unifying force for the team, especially during a period of coaching changes.
Her passion for soccer extended beyond playing, as Kristy aspired to lead and coach at the highest level. She graduated with a degree in Dietetics and went on to complete her MBA with a concentration in Sports Administration from Friends University. There, she served as the Assistant Coach for the Falcons in the NAIA, further honing her leadership skills.
During her time in Kansas, Kristy also became the Club Director of Soccer Operations with Wichita United FC. These roles provided her with invaluable experience, preparing her for the next significant step in her career.
Kristy Helmers graduating with her MBA from Friend’s University in Kansas, where she started her coaching career as the assistant coach for the Falcons in the NAIA.
“She worked hard, led from the front, and could bang away goals. I knew she was going to be a great fit for the USA college soccer system.”
A New Chapter: Head Coach at Nicholls State
Now, Kristy returns to Thibodaux as the Head Coach of the Nicholls State University women's soccer team, ready to lead the Colonels into a new era. The team faced a challenging season last year, with only one win, and Kristy has a significant task ahead in reshaping the team and rebuilding its culture.
"Like many other coaches at Nicholls, I am excited to take this team to new heights and continue to do great things," Helmers said. "It is going to take a lot of hard work from myself, my staff, and our ladies, but I am confident with the continued support of our administration, support staff, alumni, and fans that we will get there together!"
The Journey Ahead
Kristy's journey from a promising young forward in Canberra to the head coach of her alma mater is a testament to her unwavering dedication, hard work, and leadership. Her experience as a player, assistant coach, and club director has equipped her with the skills needed to lead the Colonels successfully in the NCAA D1.
“It is going to take a lot of hard work from myself, my staff, and our ladies, but I am confident with the continued support of our administration, support staff, alumni, and fans that we will get there together!”
At Upper 90 College, we are incredibly proud of Kristy's achievements and look forward to supporting her as she embarks on this new chapter. Her story is a powerful reminder of what can be accomplished with focus, determination, and the right support network.
Congratulations, Kristy! Here's to your continued success and the bright future ahead for the Nicholls State University women's soccer team.
