ST. LOUIS – The University of Missouri-St. Louis Department of Athletics has announced a three-year contract extension for head men's soccer coach Josh Alderson, reinforcing its commitment to the continued growth and future of the Tritons men's soccer program.

Alderson, who was named head coach in January 2023, is in his fourth season leading the Tritons. Throughout his tenure, he has worked to establish a culture centered on accountability, character, competitiveness and student-athlete development while building a foundation for sustained success in the Great Lakes Valley Conference (GLVC).

"We are excited to extend Coach Alderson's contract and continue building on the foundation he has established with our men's soccer program," said UMSL Executive Director of Athletics Holly Sheilley. "He understands that building a successful program requires more than what happens on the field. It takes a commitment to developing young men of character, creating a culture of accountability and establishing expectations that lead to sustained success. I have seen firsthand the positive impact of his leadership and the direction in which he is taking this program. We believe in Coach Alderson, his vision and the future of UMSL men's soccer."

"I am honored and grateful for the opportunity to continue leading this storied program," said Alderson. "I want to thank Executive Director of Athletics Dr. Holly Sheilley and the university administration for their continued trust and support. I am also incredibly appreciative of my coaching staff for their dedication to our student-athletes and the program, as well as my wife for her unwavering support. This is an exciting time for UMSL Athletics, and I look forward to building on the foundation we have established. Over the next three years, we will continue to challenge ourselves, pursue excellence in all areas and work toward taking this program to new heights. I am excited about what lies ahead and the opportunity to continue moving UMSL men's soccer forward."

Under Alderson's leadership, the Tritons have continued to build momentum both on and off the field. In 2024, UMSL closed the regular season with four consecutive victories to secure its first GLVC Tournament appearance since 2021. The program followed with a memorable 2025 season highlighted by a 3-2 road victory over the University of Indianapolis, its first win against the Greyhounds since 2016.

The program has also demonstrated a commitment to academic excellence. Jack Franklin and Mario Garcia earned College Sports Communicators Academic All-District honors following the 2025 season, while the team received the GLVC Team Academic Award for the 2025-26 academic year after posting a 3.353 team GPA.

The 2026 season has featured several notable victories, including a 1-0 win over Rockhurst on October 10 and a 1-0 road victory over Lewis on September 23. UMSL also opened the season with a 1-0 victory against Kentucky Wesleyan, marking the program's first season-opening win since 2020.

Beyond the results on the field, Alderson has emphasized the importance of building a team culture rooted in discipline, respect and personal growth. His commitment to developing student-athletes extends beyond competition, with an emphasis on academic success, leadership and preparing young men for life after graduation.

Prior to joining UMSL, Alderson spent 10 years at Lenoir-Rhyne University as a student-athlete and coach, including six seasons as a member of the coaching staff.

With the three-year extension, Alderson will continue leading the Tritons as they pursue competitive success in the GLVC while maintaining a strong commitment to the overall student-athlete experience.