Schafer comes to Valley Forge with an impressive coaching background spanning more than 30 years. He most recently served as a Coach at Norristown Area High School in Norristown, PA, where he has led track and field and cross-country programs since 1993. His deep roots in Pennsylvania athletics and proven ability to develop student-athletes at the high school level position him perfectly to lead the Patriots' collegiate program.
In addition to his coaching duties, Schafer has been a dedicated educator, teaching 9th-12th grade English classes at Norristown Area High School since September 1993. His experience as both teacher and coach demonstrates his holistic approach to student development.
Schafer also served as a Coach at Ursinus College in Collegeville, PA, from 1991 to 2004, where he led the cross-country program. His familiarity with the local collegiate athletics landscape and understanding of the region's athletic culture will be invaluable assets to Valley Forge.
"I am humbled by this opportunity," said Neil Schafer. "I hope to serve the student-athletes to the best of my ability and further their love of Christ and track and field. This is new path on my coaching journey and I look forward to each step. I am lucky to work with such incredible people at UVF. The passion and commitment of the UVF community is evident in every person I meet."
Beyond coaching, Schafer brings extensive experience as a track and field official, having been a PIAA Certified Official since 2015. He has also served as a public address announcer for basketball games, football games, and volleyball matches, and has been an advisor for literary magazines. His multifaceted involvement in athletics demonstrates his comprehensive understanding of the sport and commitment to the athletic community.
The Track & Field program looks forward to an exciting new chapter under Coach Schafer's leadership.