Lakeland moves into a new era for Men’s Soccer

Lakeland moves into a new era for men's soccer, with a familiar face at the helm.

Rustlers Athletics have hired Hani Tekheste as the new head coach for the team this season. He replaces longtime coach Kevin Wagner, who vacates the position after being promoted to Manager of Athletics at Lakeland College.

"It feels good to be back," Tekheste said. "I had great moments as a player and now I'm [enjoying] looking at things from a coach's perspective and what I can bring to the team."

"I'm excited and proud to have an alumnus who was invested in and developed within the program taking over this coaching role," Wagner added. "It's a perfect opportunity for him after earning his education degree to use his knowledge as an educator and past player."

Tekheste was beloved by fellow students and student athletes during his time in the Border City. Joining the Rustlers in 2019, the Saskatoon native attended Lakeland for five years, playing four seasons and training for a year during the COVID-19 pandemic. In his time as a Rustler, Tekhesete became one of the most decorated players in the history of the program, twice earning All-Conference recognition during the soccer season and once during futsal, as well as being named Male Athlete of the Year at Lakeland in 2024.

A high performing student, Tekheste graduated with a Bachelor's of Education.

His individual accomplishments were paired with his growth into a leader and key contributor to the team's success. The Rustlers lost in a shootout after reaching the bronze medal game for soccer in the fall of 2021 and he scored the winning goal in the bronze medal game of the 2023 ACAC Futsal Championship.

The star midfielder was known in the community off the pitch as well, coaching with youth soccer teams and basketball teams, the latter during his practicum work at Holy Rosary High School. He was also the voice of the Rustlers in the Lloydminster Campus Gymnasium, serving as the PA Announcer at volleyball and basketball games, including the 2024 CCAA Women's Basketball Championship.

Tekheste said he plans to use his experience living in Lloydminster and being a Lakeland student and former player to make the transition smooth.

"It's not like I'm starting from scratch and having to restart," he said. "The process is still going."

"I know what Kevin has done here since I was absent and I'm going to try to keep pushing things forward."

Tekheste makes his league debut as the Rustlers bench boss against the NAIT Ooks on September 7 in Lakeland's home opener. The team will have a series of exhibition games in August prior to league play.