Niagara College is celebrating Knights men’s soccer head coach and professor Frank DeChellis, who has been named the recipient of Ontario Soccer’s 2026 Coaches Development Award.
Presented as part of Ontario Soccer’s annual Centre Circle Awards, the honour recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to coaching development across the province through education, mentorship and a commitment to player development.
DeChellis, who has served as head coach of the Knights men’s soccer team since 2012, is also a Professor and Program Coordinator in NC’s School of Technology.
A Confederation of North, Central America and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF) A-License Coach and Chartered Professional Coach, DeChellis has dedicated nearly four decades to developing players and coaches throughout Niagara and Ontario.
Beyond his roles at NC, he serves as Coach Development Coordinator with the Welland Soccer Club and delivers coach education for Canada Soccer. He has also contributed to coaching development through Ontario Soccer, the Niagara Regional Soccer Program and major sporting initiatives, including the 2022 Canada Summer Games.
“Coach Education has been a nice addition to my soccer journey because I am passionate about soccer, coaching and teaching, and this checks all the boxes,” said DeChellis. “My work at the Welland soccer club is enjoyable because it allows me to fill in that gap between formal coach education and the realities of running a team and putting your soccer knowledge into teachable chunks.”
DeChellis also credits the support of NC’s Athletics department for helping him grow as a leader in the soccer community.
“Michele O’Keefe, Senior Director of Athletics & Student Engagement at NC, encourages and supports varsity coaches to be technical leaders in our respective sports communities,” he said. “Her contacts, ideas and advice have helped me grow in that space. A nice full-circle moment is when former players are in my coaching courses.”
DeChellis and the Knights men’s soccer team will wrap up their regular season this Sunday, October 18, against Humber College, before heading into the playoffs on Wednesday, October 21.
