As one of the most experienced figures in women’s and men’s soccer, Randy Waldrum’s name has become synonymous with dedication, tactical discipline, and player development. Through his long list of coaching assignments—from grassroots college teams to national sides—Waldrum’s career has consistently centered around fostering growth and competitive excellence. This article provides a thorough breakdown of all Randy Waldrum teams coached.
Early Coaching Start: Austin College and Texas Wesleyan
First Coaching Steps at Austin College
Randy Waldrum began his formal coaching career in 1982 when he took charge of the men’s soccer team at Austin College. Although the team ended the season with a 4–12–1 record, the experience marked the beginning of his long-standing commitment to developing teams through adversity. This initial chapter served as the building block for the years that followed.
Building from the Ground Up at Texas Wesleyan
By 1988, Waldrum had moved on to Texas Wesleyan University, where he led the men’s soccer squad to a 6–10 record. Despite limited resources and challenges in recruitment, Waldrum used this time to fine-tune his coaching style and tactical awareness. This period shaped his ability to work with limited squads while maintaining a growth mindset.
Double Duty at the University of Tulsa
Coaching Both Men’s and Women’s Programs
From 1989 through 1994, Waldrum handled responsibilities for both the men’s and women’s soccer teams at the University of Tulsa. His record with the men’s team stood at 66–33–6, while the women’s side achieved a solid 61–36–9 under his leadership. Coaching both programs simultaneously required a meticulous approach to training schedules, game tactics, and athlete management.
Recognition and Influence
His work in Tulsa earned him regional accolades and strengthened his reputation as a results-driven coach. His 1991 men’s team clinched the Missouri Valley Conference title and secured a spot in the NCAA tournament—a first for the school. The women’s side saw similar progress, with four all-region players and multiple Academic All-American selections during his tenure.
Laying the Foundation at Baylor University
Starting a New Program from Scratch
In 1996, Baylor University hired Waldrum to launch its women’s soccer program. Over three seasons, he led the new team to a 46–14–3 record. The 1998 squad went undefeated in Big 12 conference play (9-0-1) and captured Baylor’s first conference title in any sport.
National Recognition
Waldrum received both conference and regional coach of the year awards for his success at Baylor. That same year, the Bears earned a national ranking as high as 12th and made their first NCAA tournament appearance. Soccer Buzz named Baylor the best first-year program in the country in 1996.
Dominance at the University of Notre Dame
Taking Over a National Powerhouse
When Notre Dame began searching for a women’s soccer coach in 1999, they sought a leader with deep tactical knowledge and proven success. Waldrum’s arrival marked the start of a new era for the program. Over 15 seasons, he guided the Irish to a 292–58–17 record.
Championship Runs
Under his guidance, Notre Dame secured national titles in 2004 and 2010. The 2010 win came in his 300th match with the team, adding symbolic significance to the achievement. During his time there, Notre Dame also reached four national finals and six College Cups.
Individual Player Achievements
Numerous players flourished under Waldrum’s coaching. Anne Makinen, Katie Thorlakson, Kerri Hanks, and Melissa Henderson all received national accolades. Hanks, notably, won the Hermann Trophy twice. His teams earned 29 All-America and 19 Academic All-America honors during his time with the Irish.
Statistical Legacy
The Irish posted five of their six best-ever goals-against averages while Waldrum was in charge. They also earned a +224 win-to-loss differential during his tenure. His career winning percentage as a women’s college coach (.771) ranks among the highest for coaches with 10+ years at the Division I level.
Professional Experience: Houston Dash
Entering the National Women’s Soccer League
In 2014, Waldrum was selected to lead Houston Dash as the team’s inaugural head coach. He signed a three-year contract and later extended for an additional season. Although the team did not reach the playoffs, Waldrum’s 19–39–13 record reflected his efforts to build a franchise from the ground up in a highly competitive league.
Team Culture and Development
Despite the challenging environment, Waldrum focused on instilling professionalism and long-term structure. His approach helped the organization establish a foundation, even if immediate results proved elusive.
International Coaching Roles
Trinidad and Tobago Women’s National Team
Waldrum was appointed head coach of Trinidad and Tobago’s women’s team in 2014. His tenure ended in January 2016, but it added international experience to his résumé. He faced logistical and infrastructural hurdles during this stint but remained committed to raising the team’s profile.
Nigeria Women’s National Football Team
In 2017, Waldrum was named to lead the Nigeria women’s team but chose not to accept the position at that time. He eventually took the role in 2020. From 2020 to 2023, he led the Super Falcons through key tournaments and qualification campaigns.
Coaching Philosophy on the Global Stage
With Nigeria, Waldrum emphasized discipline, tactical structure, and mental resilience. He brought decades of college-level experience into the international arena and played a role in refining Nigeria’s approach to high-level competition.
Current Role at University of Pittsburgh
From Head Coach to Technical Director
In 2017, Waldrum became head coach of the University of Pittsburgh women’s team. He brought the same work ethic and attention to detail that had characterized his earlier roles. On May 22, 2025, he transitioned to the role of technical director, stepping aside from daily coaching responsibilities.
Family Connection
His son, Ben Waldrum, continues the coaching tradition as an assistant and now head coach of the Panthers. The duo worked together at both Notre Dame and Pittsburgh, creating a family legacy within collegiate soccer.
Summary of Randy Waldrum Teams Coached
Men’s Coaching Record
- Austin College (1982): 4–12–1
- Texas Wesleyan (1988): 6–10
- Tulsa (1989–1994): 66–33–6
Total Men’s Record: 76–55–7
Women’s Coaching Record
- Pittsburg State (1978–1989)
- Tulsa (1989–1994): 61–36–9
- Baylor (1996–1998): 46–14–3
- Notre Dame (1999–2013): 292–58–17
- Trinidad and Tobago (2014–2016)
- Houston Dash (2014–2017): 19–39–13
- University of Pittsburgh (2018–2025)
- Nigeria National Team (2020–2023)
Total Women’s Record (college only): 399–108–29
Combined Record (college and professional): 475–163–36
Article updated 6 days ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
