Waterville, ME - When
Christopher Parsons returned to his alma mater in 2011 to take the helm as Head Men's Soccer Coach, he brought with him more than just a passion for the game—he brought a vision. Over the next decade, that vision transformed the Terriers into a perennial powerhouse in the North Atlantic Conference (NAC). Under his leadership, the men's soccer program claimed five NAC Championships and secured five NCAA Division III National Tournament appearances. Parsons developed talent with precision, coaching two players who would go on to play professionally, mentoring three NAC Player of the Year recipients, and guiding one Academic All-American. In total, 38 student-athletes earned NAC All-Conference honors during his tenure, and in 2016, Parsons was recognized as the NAC Coach of the Year. Parsons' impact, however, extended far beyond the soccer pitch.
In July 2020, he stepped into a new role as Director of Athletics at Thomas College. Though he continued coaching men's soccer until December 2021, his focus had broadened. Just months later, in August 2022, Parsons was promoted to Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics, a position he has held for the past four years. In this role, he became a bridge between athletics and academics, working closely with departments across campus to align athletics with the college's broader educational mission.
His leadership during this time was nothing short of transformative. The Terriers celebrated five NAC Championships in multiple sports, and their esports program rose to prominence, capturing several championships of their own. Academic excellence thrived as well; the number of conference all-academic selections surged from 98 in the 2020–21 academic year to an impressive 150 by 2024–25.
Parsons also led the athletics department through one of its most challenging eras—the COVID-19 pandemic—and emerged with a strengthened program. His tenure saw the construction of the state-of-the-art Sukeforth Family Sports Center and the development of a second esports facility. He championed the addition of new varsity programs, including esports, Women's Volleyball, Men's and Women's Rugby, and Women's Ice Hockey, as well as four new competitive club teams.
Staffing saw remarkable growth under his guidance. Parsons turned nearly every coaching and staff role into full-time positions, added an additional athletic trainer, brought on two full-time esports coaches, expanded the sports information team, and hired the college's first full-time strength and conditioning coach.
Now, after years of dedication and impact, Parsons is moving on to a new opportunity. While his presence at Thomas College will be deeply missed, his legacy will continue to shape the athletic department for years to come. Parsons had this to say about his time at Thomas: "Thomas College has been so much more than a workplace to me, it's been home. From my time as a student-athlete to my years as a coach, athletic director, and vice president of intercollegiate athletics, I've had the privilege of growing alongside this incredible community for nearly 15 years. I'm especially grateful for the countless student-athletes who have impacted my life in such a positive way, their passion, resilience, and character have inspired me every day. I'm forever thankful for the relationships, the memories, and the opportunity to give back to a place that has given me so much. Thomas will always hold a special place in my heart."
His final day will be Thursday, August 7th.
