PHOENIXVILLE, PA – University of Valley Forge extends its heartfelt gratitude to Stephen Bower, who concluded his tenure as Head Men's Soccer Coach on August 15, 2025, after five exceptional years of service to the Patriots Athletic Department.
Coach Bower's impact on UVF athletics extends far beyond the soccer field. Since joining the university in June 2020 as Head Men's Soccer Coach and Campus Director, he demonstrated unwavering commitment to student-athlete development, academic excellence, and the values that define Patriots athletics. His dual role as Assistant Athletic Director, which he assumed in July 2022 while continuing as head coach, showcased his versatility and dedication to the broader athletic program. In this capacity, Coach Bower oversaw Athletic Department fundraising initiatives, helping bring in more than $100,000 for teams, and led the department's recruiting strategy.
"Coach Bower has been an invaluable member of our athletics family and my second in command," said Athletic Director Gretchen LeVan. "His commitment to developing young Christian men both as athletes and as individuals has left a lasting impact on our program and our student-athletes."
Under Coach Bower's leadership, the men's soccer program achieved notable recognition, including United East All Conference Selections in 2023 and multiple sportsmanship honors. The team earned United East All Sportsmanship Selections in both 2024 and 2023, as well as CSAC All Sportsmanship Selections in 2022 and 2021, reflecting Coach Bower's emphasis on character development and integrity in competition.
Beyond athletics, Coach Bower contributed significantly to the academic mission of the university, teaching courses in sport management, physical education, and mathematics. His educational background, including bachelor's degrees in Mathematics and Adolescence Education from Houghton College, and his previous experience as a mathematics teacher at Westview High School, enriched the academic experience for UVF students.
"Coach Bower exemplifies what it means to be a servant-leader," noted Athletic Director LeVan "We thank Coach Bower and his family for their dedication and sacrifice over the last five years, they will be greatly missed."
Prior to his tenure at UVF, Coach Bower served as an assistant men's soccer coach at Arizona Christian University from 2017-2020, where he also coached the men's club team. His eight years of teaching and coaching at Westview High School, where he guided soccer, cross-country, and tennis programs, demonstrated his versatility and passion for athletic mentorship.
The University of Valley Forge community wishes Coach Bower continued success in his future endeavors and thanks him for his significant contributions to Patriots athletics and the lives of the student-athletes he mentored.
Coach Josiah Colegrove will serve as Interim Head Men's Soccer Coach for the remainder of this season.
For more information about University of Valley Forge athletics, visit uvfpatriots.com.
