August 13, 2021
Tyler White, a native of Brandon and an MRA graduate, returns to Decatur in 2021 to help lead both the ECCC men's and women's soccer programs as an assistant coach. White was an NJCAA All-Region 23 and MACCC All-Star selection for the Warriors as he helped lead the men's program to a MACCC North Division title as a player in 2017.
"I'm so thankful for the opportunity to be back involved with the soccer program at ECCC," said White. "I look forward to helping develop our student-athletes to be the best that can be on and off the field and help them reach the goals that they set for themselves."
White is experienced in multiple levels of collegiate soccer as he continued his playing career at Belhaven University upon graduating from East Central. He was a team captain with the Blazers, selected as Player of the Year for the team, and named All-ASC (American Southwest Conference) Honorable Mention as a senior. Along with his impressive accolades, White helped lead the Belhaven team as it transitioned to an NCAA DIII affiliated program, and in the team ranking the top-25 in the Blazers' inaugural year at the new level.
"I feel that my experience is my biggest asset for our student-athletes," said White. "I have been in their shoes and know the hard work, dedication, and all-around effort it takes to perform well in this league, and I know how to help these players transition their skills to the next level."
Along with a lengthy playing resume, White has experience coaching as well. White spent a year with the Hartfield Academy Hawks in Flowood and helped both the men's and women's soccer teams capture MAIS state titles. He is also an assistant coach of the International Futbol Club in Flowood, which plays matches throughout the southeast. These opportunities and years of experience running camps and giving private lessons make White a valuable addition to the ECCC soccer coaching staff.
"I've always wanted to do something that I know I can excel at, and I'm excited to help take these programs to new heights," said White. "Coach Joiner and Coach Paschal have lots of connections, particularly on the coast, and I am thrilled to bring in my central Mississippi connections into play on the recruiting trail to help out in any way that I can."
White and the Warriors kickoff the 2021 regular season with a trip to Jones College on August 20 with games starting at 6 and 8 p.m.
