MidAmerica Nazarene University Men's Football

Ivan Cordova was named the head football coach at MidAmerica Nazarene University in Olathe, Kansas, after serving as the team’s defensive coordinator since 2021. A dynamic leader with a proven track record of building dominant defenses, Cordova played a key role in revitalizing the Pioneers’ football program, helping lead them to back-to-back conference championships and their first playoff appearance since 2014.   Under his 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. His ability to develop elite defenses has led to 5 conference titles, top national rankings in defensive performance, and the mentorship of multiple All-Americans and professional prospects. 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. As he steps into his role as head coach, Cordova remains committed to fostering a culture of excellence, discipline, and faith at MidAmerica Nazarene University, preparing his players not only for success on the field but also for life beyond the game. 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.  

Coach Sambol Joined the Pioneer football staff in 2019. In the first year being on staff, the offensive line unit saw multiple improvements to lead one of the most efficient rushing units in MNU history. Paving the way for the way for two of the top three single game rushing performances in MNU history, including the all-time single game rushing performance in 2019. Coach Sambol helped produce 2 all conference lineman, 1 of them being an All-American (Devonte Lewis), and one going on to sign with the XFL (Brandon Watson). Prior to MNU, Coach Sambol was the offensive line coach at Northwestern college (IA). In 2018 Coach Sambol help lead the Red Raiders to a 9-2 Record, a national playoff berth, allowing Northwestern to achieve its highest rank during the season at #3. Coach Sambol produced 3 all conference offensive lineman in the GPAC conference.  Coach Sambol’s unit was a huge reason for one the most efficient and explosive offensive units in the NAIA. Allowing both Quarterback Tyson Koomia and running back Jacob Kalogonis to achieve All conference honors, and would eventually become the schools top rusher and passer in school History. Coach Sambol also assisted in NWC college’s strength and conditioning dept. with Strength Coach Korey Van Wyke. Coach Sambol played his college football starting at the JUCO level. Coach Sambol was a 2-year starter at highland CC in the Jayhawk conference where he was an all-conference Center. He then continued and finished his career at MNU. Coach Sambol was a part of one of the most explosive offensive units in his 2 years as a pioneer. In 2012 Coach Sambol was a part of a unit that went 9-3, a national ranking of 6th in the nation and allowing only 6 sacks all year, being 3rd best in the nation, and then allowing only 9 in 2013, tied for 2nd in the nation. In 2013 Coach Sambol helped lead the unit that paved the way for senior RB Greg Gates who then at the time became the all-time leading rusher, and all-time leader in TD’s in MNU history. Coach Sambol then went on to play in the Arena league for the next few years. Playing for the Kansas Kyotes, and the San Angelo Bandits (Texas). Coach Sambol received his undergrad in criminal justice while at MNU, then went on to get his masters in Human, Health, and Performance, interning with MNU’s Coach Rodden to become strength and conditioning certified.  

C.J. Collins joined MNU Football in spring of 2021. During his time with MNU, he coached an all-conference Q.B, Offensive Player of the year (Adrian Parsons), and even broke the single game passing record during his first year with 659 yards passing. Prior to MNU, he was the starting quarterback for Southwestern Assemblies of God University fot five years. Afterwards, he further his playing career in playing for the Green Bay Packers. Ultimately, Collins ended up in Dallas and then traded again to Washington in the XFL.  Collins earned his Masters in Business from MNU. He is originally from Waco, Texas and went to Bosqueville High School. He was a multiple sport athlete and was All-State in Basketball, Baseball and Football. He has two incredible parents (Carl and Erica Collins), an older brother (Addison) and a younger sister (Carly).