Lyon College Men's Football

Chris Douglas serves as the head coach for the Lyon Football program and has been leading the team since 2020. As the fourth head football coach in the program's history, Douglas brings a wealth of experience to the position with over 28 years of coaching under his belt, including an impressive 18 years as a head coach. Coach Douglas made a significant impact at MacMurray College in Jacksonville, Illinois, where he successfully turned around a struggling football program. When he arrived in June 2011, the team had endured a tough period from 2006 to 2010, securing only one win. However, in his first season as head coach, Douglas led the team to two victories, breaking a 22-game losing streak and setting the stage for future success. During his tenure at MacMurray College, Coach Douglas spent nine seasons with the team, achieving remarkable results in his last five seasons. He compiled an impressive record of 34 wins and 15 losses during that period and led the team to a second-place finish in the Upper Midwest Athletic Conference (UMAC) standings in both 2017 and 2018. Prior to his time at MacMurray College, Coach Douglas served as the head coach at his alma mater, Southwestern College. At the young age of 31, he became the third youngest head collegiate coach in the country. During his time at Southwestern College, he coached numerous all-conference selections, NAIA All-Americans, and NAIA All-American Scholar-Athletes, showcasing his ability to develop talented players both on and off the field. Coach Douglas has also contributed his coaching expertise to other notable institutions, including Abilene Christian University, Jamestown College, and Highland Community College. Before embarking on his college coaching career, he served as the head coach at Stigler High School in Oklahoma, leading the team to a remarkable 7-3 record and securing their first home playoff berth in 25 years. Education plays a vital role in Coach Douglas's career, as he holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology from Southwestern College. Additionally, he obtained a Master's degree in Education with a focus on Sports Administration from Wichita State University. Chris Douglas, along with his wife Michelle, resides in Batesville, bringing a strong sense of family values to his role as head coach. With three children in their lives, Coach Douglas understands the importance of balancing his dedication to coaching and his commitment to his family. His passion for leadership and coaching extends to the team, as he strives to create a supportive and successful environment both on and off the field. With his vast experience, proven track record, and dedication to the Lyon Football program, Coach Chris Douglas stands as the longest tenured football coach in the history of Lyon College. His leadership and expertise will undoubtedly continue to guide the team toward success both on and off the field.

BATESVILLE, Arkansas - The Lyon College Athletics Department  welcomes the addition of Coach Andy Paider as the Defensive Coordinator for the Scots football team. Excited to bring his wealth of experience and passion for the game to Lyon College, Andy Paider joins the Scots' football program as the Defensive Coordinator. Hailing from Denmark, Wisconsin, Paider is no stranger to success both on and off the field. A standout player during his time at Lawrence University, Paider graduated in 2014 with a Bachelor's degree in history, leaving an indelible mark on the Vikings' football program. Following his graduation, Paider embarked on a coaching journey that has seen him develop into a highly respected defensive strategist. Paider's coaching career took off as he assumed the role of defensive line coach at his alma mater during the 2014 season. From there, he continued to refine his coaching skills, serving as the defensive line coach at St. Norbert College in 2015 and then transitioning to coach linebackers at Wilmington College in 2016. However, it was at MacMurray College, under the wing of current Lyon Football Head Coach Chris Douglas, where Paider truly made his mark. As the associate head coach and defensive coordinator from 2017 to 2019, Paider's defensive prowess was evident as his teams consistently boasted the top-ranked pass defense in the Upper Midwest Athletic Conference. Under his guidance, several players earned All-Conference honors, with standout defensive end Javon Muhammad capturing the UMAC Defensive Player of the Year title and the prestigious Cliff Harris Award for small college defensive excellence. In 2020, Paider took on the role of defensive line coach at Gannon University, further expanding his coaching repertoire at the NCAA Division II level before returning to Lawrence as the co-defensive coordinator in 2021. Paider's coaching philosophy centers on a blend of strategic acumen, player development, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Armed with a Master's degree in sports leadership from Concordia University Chicago, Paider brings a comprehensive understanding of the game and a commitment to the holistic development of his players. Now, as the Defensive Coordinator at Lyon College, Paider is poised to make a significant impact on the Scots' football program. With his expertise, leadership, and unwavering dedication, Paider is committed to guiding Lyon's defense to new heights while shaping the next generation of student-athletes both on and off the field.

Will Lawhorn, originally from Rochelle, Illinois, began his second stint on the Lyon College football staff last season, and will be taking on a new role as the Scots' Offensive Coordinator for the 2024-25 year. With a passion for the game and a wealth of experience, Lawhorn brings a valuable skill set to the team. Lawhorn joins Lyon College from Rockford University, where he made a significant impact as the special teams coordinator, offensive line coach, and strength and conditioning coach for the Regents. His dedication and expertise in these roles helped elevate the team's performance. Before his time at Rockford, Lawhorn served as an assistant coach at both Lyon College and MacMurray College. During his tenure at MacMurray, he played a crucial role as the offensive line coach, contributing to the Highlanders' successful 5-5 overall record and an impressive 5-3 mark in conference play. Under his guidance, the Highlander offense thrived, averaging over 31 points per game and accumulating 1,312 rushing yards. Furthermore, Lawhorn's coaching prowess ensured a solid offensive line, as the team allowed only 10 sacks during conference play. His contributions were acknowledged with the recognition of an All-UMAC performer. Additionally, Lawhorn assisted as the program's assistant strength and conditioning coach, emphasizing the importance of physical preparedness. Lawhorn previously served Lyon College as both the defensive line coach and head strength and conditioning coach during his first stint. His diverse coaching experience and commitment to player development make him a valuable asset to the Lyon College football program. Prior to his coaching career, Lawhorn was a four-year member of the Rockford University football team. As a player, Lawhorn achieved First Team All-NACC status, demonstrating his exceptional skills and dedication. Notably, he anchored one of Rockford's most productive offensive lines in recent memory, contributing to the team's remarkable achievements. In his senior season, Rockford recorded the second most total offensive yards (3,643), the second most rushing yards (1,663), and the third most passing yards (1,980) in a single season since joining the Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference in 2008. In 2019, Lawhorn graduated from Rockford University with a bachelor's degree in Physical Education and a minor in Health. He is proud to call Batesville his home, where he resides with his wife, Alison, and his daughter, Adalynn. With his extensive background in coaching and playing, combined with his passion for the game, Will Lawhorn is well-equipped to guide and inspire Lyon College's offensive linemen to achieve their full potential. His expertise and dedication will undoubtedly contribute to the team's success on the field.