University of West Alabama Women's Soccer

Sam Wilson begins his first year as the head women's soccer coach at the University of West Alabama.  Wilson comes to UWA after spending the last six seasons at nearby Meridian Community College (Miss.) as the head coach of the men's soccer program. He began his collegiate coaching career as an assistant with both the men's and women's programs for the Eagles during the 2017 and 2018 seasons.  "I am very excited to be a part of UWA Women's Soccer. It is my mission to continue in the great traditions and successes of previous teams, as well as grow the program in the classroom, the community and on the field," said Wilson.  Prior to his time in Meridian, he served as the head boys soccer coach at Newton County High School for six seasons, advancing to the postseason four times and reached the state championship match once. He was also recognized by his peers as district coach of the year three times. Away from the college game, he also worked with the Alliance Futbol Club as its Academy Director.  "I look forward to getting started and hitting the ground running with the girls. We have lots of hard work in front of us, but with the returning talent and our new recruits, I have the upmost confidence in our team," added Wilson.  Graduating from Meridian High School in 2006, he played men's soccer at MCC for two seasons, including garnering All-Region status his freshman year and being a team captain the following season.  Wilson graduated from Mississippi State University in 2011 with a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education. He holds a USSF C, D and E licenses with the United States Soccer Federation and a National Diploma and Goalkeeper 1 Certificate with the United Soccer Coaches.  Updated 8/4/23

Hailing from London, England, Rashid joined the Tigers staff in 2025 with a vast of experience both as a player and coach at a young age. Before signing on the dotted line to be Wilson's top assistant, Rashid was the Academy Director for Alabama South FC while serving as Head Coach for Montgomery Academy High School's Women's Team. As Head Coach for the 7A High School, Rashid led Montgomery Academy to a Final Four Appearance in 2024 and an Elite Eight berth in 2025. Before achieving Full-Time coaching jobs at the High School and FC level, Rashid served as a Volunteer Coach at AUM in 2022 and Huntingdon College in 2023 and 2024.  While he's had a lot of success on the sidelines as a coach, Rashid stood out as a player from 2017-2021. The London native kicked off his college career with Northwest Kansas CC in 2017 and immediately made an impact. After his freshman year, Rashid was named Freshman of the Year, before winning the distinction of Player of the Year in his sophomore campaign. After making a statement on the JUCO Circuit, Rashid transferred to AUM where he finished out his career.  Rashid was an instant starter for the Warhawks, logging over 2,100 minutes over the next three seasons. In 2021, the Defender led AUM to the Elite Eight of the NCAA Tournament, making it the best season in Auburn Montgomery Men's Soccer history.