Oakley joined the Broncos as an assistant coach in January of 2025.
With over two decades of coaching experience and a history of building championship-caliber teams, Oakley brings an impressive track record of success to WMU. Known for his strategic defensive organization, dedication to academic achievement, and ability to nurture talent, Oakley has built a reputation as a transformative leader in collegiate soccer.Â
Prior to joining Western Michigan, Oakley served as the head coach at Eastern Illinois University, where he led the program to significant milestones. In just one year, he quadrupled the team's win total and guided EIU to its first postseason conference tournament appearance in five years, advancing to the semifinals for the first time in 16 years. Under his leadership, the Panthers also achieved academic excellence, earning the top GPA among EIU men's programs in consecutive years (3.5 in 2022-23 and 3.53 in 2024).Â
Oakley's career includes head coaching stints at Lansing Common FC, Spring Arbor University, Alma College, and Asbury College. At each stop, he demonstrated his ability to cultivate winning cultures. At Lansing Common FC, Oakley coached two players who became MLS Draft picks and guided the team to multiple divisional honors, including back-to-back East Division runner-up finishes. During his time at Spring Arbor University, he led the team to two Crossroads League titles, earned two Coach of the Year awards, and maintained a national ranking throughout his tenure.
At Alma College, Oakley achieved multiple program firsts, including leading the team to its inaugural postseason victory and setting a school record for shutouts in 2016. He also mentored Alma's first All-American in 17 years and its first Academic All-American. Earlier in his career, Oakley revitalized the program at Asbury College, achieving its first winning season in 25 years while capturing back-to-back KIAC championships.
Beyond collegiate soccer, Oakley has worked with elite youth players through the Illinois Olympic Development Program and prominent clubs in Michigan, further showcasing his commitment to player development at all levels.
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