New coach to lead the Red Deer Polytechnic Queens Soccer program

Devin Simon has been named the new head coach of the Red Deer Polytechnic (RDP) Queens Soccer and Futsal programs, beginning in the 2026-27 season.  

As a former student-athlete on the Medicine Hat College Rattlers Men's Soccer team and assistant coach on the Olds College Broncos Men's and Women's Soccer teams, Simon brings valuable Alberta Colleges Athletic Conference (ACAC) experience to the RDP Queens.

"We're excited to welcome Devin as the new head coach of Queens Soccer and Futsal programs. With more than 10 years of coaching experience, Devin is skilled at supporting student-athletes holistically while balancing high-performance expectations with academic success and individual growth," says Randy Stewart, Manager, Athletics and Student Life, Red Deer Polytechnic. "His values of patience, purpose, value, confidence and bravery help shape how he builds team culture and develops student-athletes."

In addition to his ACAC coaching experience, Simon has also worked developing the skills of youth in central Alberta. Recently, he has served as the Girls Director and Head Goalkeeper Coach with SC Central, overseeing the female pathway from U9 to U19. In this role, Simon has identified and developed talent, helping create opportunities for female athletes to grow. He has also led female-focused initiatives such as the She Can Play program and development camps, creating opportunities for female athletes to build confidence and develop leadership skills.

Simon holds a Cocacaf B Diploma, a qualification designed for coaches working in youth and senior amateur soccer, focusing on player, team and staff development. He has also earned a National Goalkeeping Diploma, which is a specialized course designed for coaches working with youth and senior goalkeepers in academy or team settings. This diploma combines theoretical knowledge with practical application on the field.

Simon believes successful soccer programs are built on strong relationships, clear expectations and an environment where student-athletes are inspired to pursue excellence.

"I'm incredibly excited to begin this new chapter with a program that has such a proud tradition of success, while contributing to an athletics department that is driven by innovation and a commitment to competing at the highest levels," says Mr. Simon. "In my first season, my focus will be on creating an environment where student-athletes can thrive on and off the field. I also want to expand the Queens' footprint throughout central Alberta by building meaningful connections within our community and inspiring the next generation of female athletes. I believe we have an incredible opportunity to be leaders in growing the women's game and showing young girls what is possible through sport."

Last season, the Queens (8-3-1) finished second in the ACAC South Division during the regular season. Then they earned bronze at both the ACAC and Canadian Collegiate Athletic Association (CCAA) National Championships.

The Red Deer Polytechnic Queens will begin the 2026-27 season against the SAIT Trojans in Calgary on Saturday, August 29.