Blackburn Announces Changes to Soccer Programs

CARLINVILLE, IL -- Blackburn College Athletics has announced changes to the women's soccer program. 

Current Men's Soccer Head Coach Josh Oswald will move into a new role as Director of Soccer where he will oversee both the men's and women's soccer programs. In his role, he will will be responsible for recruiting as well as all administrative tasks. He will also remain the men's soccer program's head coach. 

Andy Arterburn will move on from his assistant men's soccer coach role to become the new Head Women's Soccer Coach and will look to steer the program through the next season. Arterburn be will responsible for all practice and game instruction and coaching. 

"I'm incredibly excited about the future of both our men's and women's soccer programs under the leadership of Josh and Andy," said Director of Athletics, Kim Camara-Harvey. "The potential for our women's program to grow and thrive in the coming years is especially promising. Josh is a proven recruiter with a strong work ethic and a deep passion for the game, while Andy brings established coaching experience and exceptional tactical skills. Together, they're sure to make a significant impact!"

Heading into the 2024 men's soccer season, Oswald and Arterburn brought in a recruiting class of 23 newcomers and are currently sitting in playoff contention while boasting the most ties among all conference teams. 

Oswald is in his third season leading the leading the men's program after serving as assistant coach prior to him taking over. During his tenure with the program, Oswald has helped guide the team to eight wins and 11 ties, and helped the team to 12 wins in his last year as the team's assistant. A 2005 alumni of Blackburn, Oswald served as the Head Coach at Highland High School prior to returning to Blackburn and won three regional championships and was named the IHSA Coach of the Year. 

Arterburn has previously coached men's and women's teams for various age groups consisting of recreational, club/select, high school and college level teams. Certified as a US Soccer "D" Coaching Licensed individual, he is a passionate and an experienced soccer coach with a proven track record of guiding student athletes to achieve both personal and team achievements on and off the field.

 The women's soccer season continues Saturday with the team facing Lyon College in a St. Louis Intercollegiate Athletic Conference matchup.