Will Wagner

Will Wagner's Biography

Will Wagner, a figurehead of American college football coaching, is more than just a coach; he’s a chaperone of dreams, a vanguard of tradition, and a former athlete dedicated to the value that hard work can bring on both personal and professional fronts. Born and brought up in Odessa, Texas, Wagner, in his present role since 2024, is fostering the defensive line of Henderson State University’s football team, administering diligent leadership and articulate strategies.

Wagner’s journey with football began to gain shape during his time at Permian High School, where he showcased remarkable skills as a wide receiver and a defensive back. During his senior year in 1991, fueled by youthful vigor, blatant determination, and relentless force, Wagner’s contribution paved the way for his team to clinch the state championship, etching a remarkable beginning to his football journey.

Following his high school triumph, Wagner opted for Hardin–Simmons University in Abilene, Texas, for his further education. Here, in addition to his academic endeavors, Wagner donned an active role in the University’s football team. Over the span of four years, he wheeled himself to become a phenomenal starter, setting the school’s record for interceptions in a season and an American Southwest Conference record for career picks. This stride did not go unnoticed, garnering him All-American honors.

Parallel to his pro-activeness in the field, Wagner had a rigorous academic approach too. In 1996, he graduated with a degree in exercise science, showing a commitment that extended beyond the lines of the football pitch. The venues had a change but not Wagner’s relationship with Hardin–Simmons University, where he stayed for another year as a graduate assistant for the 1997 season.

With his knowledge pool greater than the previous year, Wagner moved to Northwest Missouri State to serve as a graduate assistant for Mel Tjeerdsma in his never-ending quest for expertise and professional experience. By 2000, the graduate assistant’s label had been replaced to recognize him as a defensive back coach. Subsequently, in 2006, he was promoted to become the assistant head coach.

During his tenure at Northwest Missouri, the team clinched 15 consecutive winning seasons, made 11 NCAA DII playoff appearances, 7 NCAA Division II National Championship Game appearances, and 3 NCAA Division II National Championships. This staggering list of accomplishments owed much to Wagner’s expertise.

Meanwhile, after the fall 2010 football season, Angelo State University was in the search for a new head coach. Wagner, with his rich experience and proven record, was considered one of the top four finalists. On December 23, 2010, Wagner was officially welcomed as the sixth head coach of the Angelo State University Rams, a role he proudly held until his departure in 2018.

Beyond this illustrious arena of the sport, Wagner shares his life with his wife, Andrea Wagner. The couple is blessed with two sons and a daughter, finding buoyancy in the calm and pleasant waters of a fulfilled family life. Today, Wagner continues to be an influential figure, forging the future of budding athletes and impacting lives on and off the field, helping them find their foothold in the intense and exciting world of American college football.