Bill Lawson

About Me:

Bill Lawson is a proud 1980 graduate of the University of Northern Iowa, holding an undergraduate degree in physical education and a master's degree in physical education with a concentration in exercise science. In recognition of his outstanding athletic achievements, Bill was honored with induction into the UNI Athletic Hall of Fame in 2003, and Kent State University Hall of Fame in 2023.

A native of Carthage, Illinois, Bill and his wife, Jodie, are proud parents of a daughter, Abbie, who excelled as a four-year starter for the Kent State women's soccer team, and a son, T.J., who achieved five All-American honors as a member of the Kent State track and field team.

After more than 40 years coaching at the Division I level, Bill Lawson has come full circle by returning to coaching at the high school level. At IMG Academy, he leverages his extensive knowledge and experience to develop athletes not only in their sport but also academically. Bill is dedicated to preparing his athletes for success in college, helping them pursue their dreams both in athletics and academics. His passion for coaching and mentoring continues to make a significant impact on the next generation of student-athletes.

Education/Accreditations

• Bachelors in Physical Education, University of Northern Iowa
• Masters in Physical Education and Exercise Science, University of Northern Iowa

Experience

• Northern University High School (Cedar Falls, Iowa)
  • Bill's coaching odyssey began at NUHS where he coached HS cross-country. He got the taste of early success by winning a Team conference title in his first year.
• John Marshall High School (Rochester, Minnesota)
  • Bill's coaching odyssey continued at John Marshall High School in Rochester, Minnesota. There, he spent three years mentoring cross country, track and field, and women's basketball squads, instilling the foundations of athletic excellence and teamwork.
• University of Northern Iowa (UNI)
  • Bill returned to his alma mater, the University of Northern Iowa, where he served as an associate head coach for a remarkable 15 seasons.
  • Developed 18 All-America athletes
  • Won 15 team conference titles
  • Earned 132 individual championships
  • Five conference athletes of the year honorees
• University of Oregon (Oregon Ducks)
  • Served as recruiting coordinator and coached jumps, throws, and decathlon
  • Coached 2 national championships
  • Produced 14 All-America honors
  • Helped Oregon win the 2003 Pac-10 title
• Kent State University (KSU)
  • 3 NCAA top-25 team finishes
  • 13 MAC championships across various disciplines
  • 5 USTFCCCA Great Lakes Region Coach of the Year awards
  • 12 MAC Coach of the Year awards
  • Coached 2 individual NCAA Champions
  • 1 The Bowerman Award semifinalist
  • Developed 72 All-Americans
  • Produced 195 individual MAC Champions
  • Coached 44 current school record holders