Ivan Cordova Named Head Coach of MNU Football

OLATHE, Kan. - MNU Director of Athletics Todd Garrett announced Ivan Cordova as the next Head Coach of the Pioneer football program on Monday. Cordova previously served as the Defensive Coordinator for the back-to-back Heart South Co-Champs. "it's a distinct pleasure to promote Ivan Cordova as head football coach at MNU," said Garrett. "His proven leadership over the past four years is a snapshot into the type of head football coach he will be for our university. His knowledge, his extensive coaching experience at all levels of college football are examples of his commitment to the sport and specifically young men. Ivan's ability to engage and motivate our student athletes to pursue personal and spiritual excellence are traits that make him the perfect leader for Pioneer Football."

Under Cordova's leadership, MNU's defense ranked among the nation's best, finishing in the top 20 in multiple statistical categories, including scoring defense, sacks, total defense, and interceptions. His defensive philosophy has been instrumental in transforming the program, cutting opponents' scoring averages by over 36 points per game and significantly improving the team's pass rush and run defense.
 
Cordova brings extensive experience from his coaching career, having previously served 12 years as a defensive coordinator at Whittier College, Central Washington University, Eastern New Mexico University, and New Mexico Highlands University. He also spent time at the NCAA division 1 level, coaching at the University of New Mexico and the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, where he honed his expertise in defensive strategy, recruiting, and player development. Cordova reached back to back FBS Bowl games, winning the 2016 New Mexico Bowl against UTSA.

A dedicated mentor on and off the field, Cordova is known for his relentless work ethic, attention to detail, and ability to inspire his players to compete at the highest level. He holds a B.A. in History with a specialization in teaching. Cordova is a devoted family man. He and his wife, Laura Cordova, a teacher at Nativity Parish School in Leawood, Kansas, are proud parents to five children—Braeden, Nolan, Jackson, Dante, and Emma.

"It is my great honor to be appointed as the next head football coach at MidAmerica Nazarene University," said Cordova. "I am excited for this opportunity to continue to be a Pioneer and build up the program we took over. I want to personally thank Todd Garrett for putting his faith in me to steward this program. There has been a shared vision throughout this process, and I believe this will be the key to our continued success. I also want to extend my gratitude to President Spittal, whose support is monumental to the long-term success of this program.  This is a special place. My promise to all of Pioneer Nation is that we will be relentless in our pursuit of excellence and continue to push this program to new heights. Ultimately, my hope is that the young men who graduate from this program will be great Christians, husbands, fathers, and members of the community of whom everyone may be proud. Go Pioneers!"