Trevor Banks was named head coach of the Chicago State men's soccer team on July 20, 2020.
"Coach Banks emerged as the choice to lead the restart of our men's soccer program because of his talent as a recruiter and his passion for leading within a championship culture," Charles said. "Trevor embodies the 'hard work' attitude that we will use to continually build and strive towards creating and sustaining nationally-competitive athletic programs in #OurChampionshipEra."
Banks, a United States Soccer Federation (USSF) "A-Senior" licensed coach, comes to Chicago State from Brown University where he was the associate head coach (2017-20) and assistant coach (2016). During his time at Brown, Banks was part of all aspects of the program and helped develop multiple award winners on and off the field, including three players selected to the United Soccer Coaches All-East Region Team, 19 All-Ivy selections, one named to the All-New England Freshman team, multiple Academic All-Ivy selections and one United Soccer Coaches Scholar All-America honoree.
"First and foremost, I would like to thank my mom," Banks said. "I know she is looking over me and dancing in joy as this is a special opportunity. She instilled a work ethic in me that's unmatched and it's the sole reason I'm here today. I would also like to show much appreciation and gratitude to coach Laughlin and the Brown community for an incredible four years on College Hill. My time there will never be forgotten and I only wish the best for the program as they move forward. Lastly, I'd like to thank President Scott and Athletic Director Charles for trusting in me to lead and build this program. Throughout the interview process, it became apparent that Chicago State is home. Not only do Chicago State's institutional values and mine align, but so does the direction in which the administration is taking the school. Chicago State is a special place and I'm very excited to get things rolling."
In addition to his duties with the Bears, Banks was also the technical director and coach of the 2002 National Premier League team with Bruno United FC (a nonprofit youth soccer club based in Providence, RI, started by the Brown men's soccer program in 2002). In 2019, Banks and his 2002 Bruno team won the US Club Soccer Rhode Island State Championship and went on to make a run to the national finals of the US Club Soccer National Cup that same year.
Prior to his stint at Brown, Banks spent one season as an assistant coach at Villanova University (2015-16) where he helped with all aspects of the program, including recruiting. With Banks assistance in the recruiting efforts, Villanova brought in the first two (2016, 2017) top-20 ranked classes in program history. Additionally, he coached two players named to All-Big East teams, one named to the All-Big East Freshman team and one player named to the United Soccer Coaches All-Region Team as well as multiple All-Big East academic award recipients.
Banks began his coaching career at William Woods University (2009-10) which made its first appearance in the conference semifinals, losing to eventual champion Park University.
Following his stint at William Woods, Banks spent one season working with the defensive core at Barry University (2011) and helped the team post a GAA of 0.90. During that time, Barry ended the season ranked 13th in the nation with a record of 12-3-6 (3-2-3 Conference), making an appearance in the conference finals and a run to the NCAA Division II Sweet 16.
Banks spent three years at the Merchant Marine Academy (2012-14) and helped coach the Mariners to a record of 24-23-3 (13-9 Conference), a goals against average (GAA) of .87, 17 shutouts and two appearances in the Landmark Conference playoffs. During that time, he also worked with the Long Island Rough Riders of the USL 2 (2012-14). With the Rough Riders, Banks was in charge of the goalkeeping corps, where, in 2014, Banks mentored goalkeeper Joe Martin to a GAA of .74 and six shutouts.
A native of Carencro, Louisiana, Banks played collegiate soccer at Kentucky Wesleyan College (2006-09) where he earned a degree in communications then continued his education, earning a master's degree in Athletic Administration from William Woods University (2010).
What They're Saying About Banks:
Steffen Seibert, US Soccer A License Instructor, Former Assistant Coach Real Salt Lake
"Trevor has a keen eye for identifying talent and is one of the hardest working recruiters in all college soccer. Being able to spend a year with him as his instructor for his A license it was clear from the start that he has a natural leadership ability and will thrive when given the opportunity to lead his own program. "
Brian Maisonneuve, Head Men's Soccer Coach, Ohio State University
"Trevor Banks is a great hire. Trevor possess the knowledge, energy and leadership to not only be an exceptional head coach but to build a good program. He has the work rate and attitude to find success for his student-athletes both on the field and in the classroom. Trevor is a team player and will be a huge asset for the entire athletic department. I look forward to watching the program grow under his leadership."
Russell Payne, Head Men's Soccer Coach, Northwestern University
"Congratulations to Chicago State University and to coach Trevor Banks in teaming up to lead the newest NCAA DI men's soccer program. Chicago State is getting a passionate, committed and genuine personality in coach Banks. I look forward to seeing the student-athletes and overall program develop under his leadership."
Sean Phillips, Head Men's Soccer Coach, University of Illinois-Chicago
"First, I would like to congratulate my friend Trevor on being selected. I would also like to commend President Scott and Athletic Director Elliott on their selection. Trevor has earned this opportunity. He's a tireless recruiter who, no doubt, will find the right student-athlete for success on the field, in the classroom and community. The Chicagoland college soccer community will have another competitive program very soon."
Bryheem Hancock, Head Men's Soccer Coach, University of Texas Rio Grande Valley
"This is an excellent hire. I know what Trevor is capable of, he is one of the top recruiters in the country and has a tenacious work ethic. He is a person of great integrity and has great relationships in the college game. I am excited to see what the future holds with coach Banks at the helm for Chicago State."
Pat Laughlin, Head Men's Soccer Coach, Brown University
"Absolutely thrilled for Chicago State and Trevor as they launch this new men's soccer program. Trevor has the knowledge, experience and passion to create a program that will represent CSU at the highest level. I look forward to following Chicago State as the process unfolds."
Chaka Daley, Head Men's Soccer Coach, University of Michigan
"This is an amazing opportunity for an ambitious young coach and you have definitely found that in coach Banks. He is an educator in sport and life, and he will undoubtedly assist your student-athletes in the creation of a Division I soccer program in a positive manner. He is also a relentless recruiter who will be ready and hungry to compete in the WAC."
Michael Nsien, Head Soccer Coach, FC Tulsa
"Trevor's experience at high levels of the college game, matched with his work ethic, have prepared him for this opportunity. Trevor has always operated with humility, respect and loyalty. I look forward to seeing all the great things Trevor will achieve at Chicago State University."
Chris Rich, Head Men's Soccer Coach, UNC-G
"Congratulations to Chicago State and coach Banks. I have had the privilege of knowing Trevor for a long time. First and foremost, he is an incredible human being so I know he will represent the men's soccer program and the university with the highest values. He is also a very good coach and an outstanding recruiter. I am confident he will create a winning tradition at Chicago State!"
