ABILENE, Texas — Hardin-Simmons University associate vice-president of athletics
Dr. John Neese has announced the hiring of Darin Koenig as the inaugural head coach of the women's flag football program.
Koenig brings more than 20 years of coaching experience, including 11 years at the varsity level, along with a proven track record of building successful programs and developing student-athletes both on and off the field. Most recently, he has served as Associate Head Football Coach and Head Track Coach at San Marcos Academy, where he helped lead consistent playoff appearances and elevated the track and field program to new heights, producing state medalists each season.
"We are excited to welcome Darin Koenig to Hardin-Simmons University as we launch our flag football program," said Neese. "Coach Koenig's experience, leadership, and commitment to student-athlete development make him the ideal choice to build this program from the ground up. His history of success and program development will set a strong foundation for our future."
During his tenure at New Braunfels Christian Academy, Koenig contributed to a 48-20 football record with two state runner-up finishes and played a key role in building a dominant baseball program that achieved a 70-7-2 record, including a state championship in 2018. Across his career, he has helped develop more than 20 collegiate student-athletes and has demonstrated excellence in recruiting, staff development, and athletic program management.
Koenig's leadership extends beyond the field, with experience in budgeting, facilities management, and hiring and mentoring coaching staff. He has also been recognized as a speaker at coaching clinics and currently serves as the TAPPS 3A District 3 Track President. He has also worked with the director of the Austin Chapter of the NFL Flag Football program.
"I am honored to be named the inaugural head coach at Hardin-Simmons University," said Koenig. "This is a tremendous opportunity to build a program from the ground up and create a Christ-centered culture based on excellence, integrity, and development. I look forward to recruiting outstanding student-athletes and representing HSU with pride."
Koenig holds a bachelor of science from the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor and a master of divinity from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary. He also holds multiple coaching and instructional certifications, including USA Wrestling Bronze Level Coach.
The addition of flag football marks an exciting expansion of HSU Athletics and reflects the university's commitment to providing innovative and competitive opportunities for student-athletes.
The Hardin-Simmons flag football program is set to begin competition in the spring of 2027 and the American Southwest Conference will have its first championship as well.
--- www.hsuathletics.com ---
