Missouri State University announced on April 27 the addition of Adam Nerio as an assistant coach for the women’s soccer program.
The appointment brings Nerio to Springfield after three seasons as an assistant women’s soccer coach at Idaho State University, where he was involved in player development, recruiting, field sessions, video analysis, scouting reports and team operations.
“I’m incredibly excited to join Missouri State and be part of a program with such a strong culture and standard,” Nerio said. “I’m looking forward to building relationships with the players and staff and helping continue the success that’s already been established here.”
Head coach Kirk Nelson said that Nerio’s coaching background and relationship-centered approach made him a strong fit for the Bears’ staff. “We are extremely excited to welcome Adam into our Mo State family! He brings enthusiasm, excellent soccer acumen, and coaching expertise that will benefit our program,” said Nelson. “Adam has a genuine and positive spirit essential for supporting our core values and connecting with our team. We can’t wait to work together and continue to evolve this program into something very special. Go Bears!”
Before his time at Idaho State, Nerio served as assistant women’s soccer coach at St. Mary’s University in San Antonio from 2019 to 2022. During his tenure there, he helped guide the team to its first NCAA Tournament at-large bid and an appearance in the Lone Star Conference semifinals; he also briefly served as interim head coach during their first postseason appearance since 2016.
Nerio’s experience includes working as an assistant men’s soccer coach at Schreiner University in Kerrville, Texas, along with youth training roles for New York Red Bulls Youth Training Programs in Westchester, New York.
A native of San Antonio, Nerio played collegiate men’s soccer and NCAA Division I cross country at Centenary College before earning a Bachelor of Science in Health and Exercise Science in 2011. He later received a Master of Arts in Public History from St. Mary’s University in 2020.
Nerio holds a U.S. Soccer Federation “C” License, United Soccer Coaches Goalkeeping Level 1 Diploma, First Aid certification, and CPR certification. His hiring is pending formal approval by the Missouri State University Board of Governors at its next scheduled meeting.
