Illinois Wesleyan University Assembles Inaugural Coaching Staff for Flag Football Program

The Illinois Wesleyan University Athletics has announced the hiring of Kelly Carlson and Stephen Harris as assistant coaches for the university's newly established flag football program. The program, set to begin competition in the spring of 2026, has been building momentum since head coach Melissa Valenzuela was named in December 2024. Valenzuela expressed her confidence in the new coaching staff, citing their unique combination of knowledge, experience, and passion for the sport.

Key Takeaways:

• Kelly Carlson, a former IWU student-athlete and two-sport athlete, returns to her alma mater as an assistant coach. She was a multiple-time Academic All-College Conference of Illinois and Wisconsin honoree and earned her master's degree in sports administration from Illinois State University in May 2025.
• Stephen Harris, a competitive flag football player and coach, brings over a decade of experience to the program. He has coached at the youth and high school levels and has played in The Jokers Flag Football league since 2016.
• Melissa Valenzuela, the inaugural head coach of the flag football program, has been actively building the team's infrastructure since her appointment in December 2024. She has traveled to various camps and clinics across the country to recruit top talent.
• The inaugural coaching staff will include Valenzuela, Carlson, and Harris. The program is set to kick off its first season in the spring of 2026.
• Carlson will bring her knowledge and experience as a former IWU student-athlete to the program, providing a valuable perspective on the university's culture and values.
• Harris's defensive expertise and competitive experience will be crucial in shaping the program's defensive strategy and performance.

Statistics:

• The flag football program will begin competition in the spring of 2026.
• The inaugural coaching staff, including Valenzuela, has been actively recruiting and building the team's infrastructure since December 2024.
• Kelly Carlson earned her master's degree in sports administration from Illinois State University in May 2025.
• Stephen Harris has over 10 years of experience in flag football, with coaching and playing experience at the youth and high school levels.

Sources:

• Illinois Wesleyan University Athletics news release, August 26, 2025.