Returning to the club in November 2023 as Sporting Director marked a homecoming for Kevin Nuss, showcasing his deep connection to the Nor'easters and the city of Ocean City, New Jersey. Throughout his career, Nuss has consistently delivered remarkable achievements and invaluable contributions to the teams he's been associated with, but his enduring relationship with the Nor'easters stands out prominently.

Kevin Nuss, as Head Coach of the Ocean City Nor'easters in 2022, during pre-match warm up at Carey Stadium, Ocean City, NJ. Photo: @jack.verdeur

After his initial stint as Head Coach for the club was interrupted by the COVID pandemic, Nuss came back to the Nor'easters in 2022, marking a pivotal chapter in his career. Serving as both Sporting Director and Head Coach, he led the team to clinch the USL League Two Mid-Atlantic Division championship. What set this season apart was the team's undefeated regular run, a feat not seen since 2004. Nuss' record of 21 unbeaten games, spanning his roles in 2019 and 2022 as Head Coach, underscores his talent in assembling a formidable squad and instilling a winning ethos. The Nor'easters broke multiple records throughout the season, boasting the league's top goalkeeper in Felix Schafer, who secured the 2022 USL League Two Golden Glove. Moreover, Nuss guided the team to set single-season records in various categories, including goals against average (GAA), goals allowed, and total wins. His impact extended beyond the field, as he fostered a culture of excellence within the club, embodying the spirit of Ocean City's rich tradition of success.

Kevin Nuss, as Assistant Coach of Union Omaha in 2023, coaches from the sideline in a game at Werner Park in Omaha, Nebraska. Photo: Union Omaha

Despite his deep connection to Ocean City, Nuss' remarkable achievements caught the attention of Union Omaha, a professional club competing in USL League One. Recognizing Nuss' leadership qualities and proven track record, Union Omaha secured his services as the club’s Assistant Coach and Head of Scouting.

Upon joining Union Omaha in 2023, Kevin Nuss immediately left his mark. His arrival coincided with the team's triumphant season, culminating in the USL League One Regular Season championship. Utilizing advanced scouting and analytics, Nuss led thorough opponent analysis and match preparation, while his skill in adapting tactics mid-game significantly contributed to the team's 14-game unbeaten streak and league dominance. His knack for talent identification and recruitment seamlessly aligned with Union Omaha's strategy, reflected in their #1 ranking in the 2023 USL League One preseason poll and 5 players selected as All-League One. His contributions, both on and off the field, cemented his pivotal role in Union Omaha's championship campaign.

Kevin Nuss, as Head Coach of the Ocean City Nor'easters in 2019, coaches from the bench in a game against the Long Island Rough Riders at Carey Stadium in Ocean City, N.J. Photo: Dave O'Sullivan | Glory Days Magazine

In 2019, Kevin Nuss returned to the Ocean City Nor'easters as Sporting Director. His appointment came under unexpected circumstances, as he stepped in to lead the team as Head Coach prior to the season due to the incumbent coach's medical condition. Despite the challenge of taking on additional responsibilities, Nuss seamlessly transitioned into the role and guided the Nor'easters to a successful campaign. Under his leadership, the team secured a winning record and maintained an unbeaten home record, showcasing Nuss' ability to motivate players and adapt to changing circumstances with resilience and determination. Due to the COVID pandemic, the 2020 USL League Two season was canceled, prompting Nuss to focus on his role at Camden County College before ultimately heading out to the midwest to take over Indian Hills Community College.

Kevin Nuss, during a press conference as Head Men's Soccer Coach at Indian Hills Community College. Photo: Ottumwa Courier

During his time at Indian Hills Community College, Kevin Nuss made waves by clinching the 2022 Region XI Championship, a feat highlighted by a significant victory over defending national champions Iowa Western. Similarly, at Camden County College, Nuss showcased his coaching prowess through an impressive record of 43 wins from 53 matches spanning three seasons. Under his leadership, Camden County emerged victorious in the Region XIX championships in all three season at the helm before making notable appearances in the NJCAA DIII national tournament, including reaching the Finals in 2020-21, the Semifinals in 2019, and the Quarterfinals in 2018. His stellar performance earned him recognition as a 3-time Region XIX Coach of the Year and a 3-time United Soccer Coaches Junior College National Coach of the Year nominee.

Kevin Nuss, as Head Coach of Camden County College in 2021, speaks with his team prior to a match. Photo: Camden County College

 

 

 

Nuss' knack for identifying and nurturing talent shone through at both Indian Hills and Camden County, where he crafted formidable rosters featuring 8 All-Americans, 22 All-Region players, and 3 Region Players of the Year. This remarkable achievement was made possible through his extensive scouting network spanning over 20 countries. His ability to create environments conducive to success and his talent for cultivating players further solidified his reputation as a versatile and accomplished coach, leaving an enduring legacy in the realm of collegiate soccer.