In a career spanning more than 30 years, John Hackworth has done it all.
The former Wake Forest star has coached U.S. men’s and youth national teams; MLS and USL pro sides; MLS Next Pro, and men’s and women’s college squads.
Now — after four years as director of coaching and technical director of MLS’s St. Louis City FC — the 55-year-old is back in the college ranks.
But this challenge is different too. Hackworth takes over at the U.S. Naval Academy. Unlike his Patriot League competitors who recruit internationally, his athletes must be appointed by their U.S. congress representatives. They undergo rigorous physical training, beyond the soccer field. They receive full scholarships for four years (thanks to taxpayers) — but after graduation, they must serve at least five years of active duty.
Hackworth relishes the challenge of coaching in that special environment. Navy’s program began in 1921. The Midshipmen won the NCAA championship in 1964, overcoming Michigan State in bitter cold at Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island.
The Glenn Warner Soccer Facility in Annapolis is named for the legendary coach (1942 to 1975). Thirteen trophy cases brim with Navy’s soccer history.
“This is all pretty unique,” Hackworth says. “We’ve had multiple All-Americans. And after they graduate, they lead the country as fighter pilots and top guns.”
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