BATESVILLE, Arkansas - The Lyon College Athletics Department welcomes the addition of Coach Andy Paider as the Defensive Coordinator for the Scots football team.
Excited to bring his wealth of experience and passion for the game to Lyon College, Andy Paider joins the Scots' football program as the Defensive Coordinator. Hailing from Denmark, Wisconsin, Paider is no stranger to success both on and off the field.
A standout player during his time at Lawrence University, Paider graduated in 2014 with a Bachelor's degree in history, leaving an indelible mark on the Vikings' football program. Following his graduation, Paider embarked on a coaching journey that has seen him develop into a highly respected defensive strategist.
Paider's coaching career took off as he assumed the role of defensive line coach at his alma mater during the 2014 season. From there, he continued to refine his coaching skills, serving as the defensive line coach at St. Norbert College in 2015 and then transitioning to coach linebackers at Wilmington College in 2016.
However, it was at MacMurray College, under the wing of current Lyon Football Head Coach Chris Douglas, where Paider truly made his mark. As the associate head coach and defensive coordinator from 2017 to 2019, Paider's defensive prowess was evident as his teams consistently boasted the top-ranked pass defense in the Upper Midwest Athletic Conference. Under his guidance, several players earned All-Conference honors, with standout defensive end Javon Muhammad capturing the UMAC Defensive Player of the Year title and the prestigious Cliff Harris Award for small college defensive excellence.
In 2020, Paider took on the role of defensive line coach at Gannon University, further expanding his coaching repertoire at the NCAA Division II level before returning to Lawrence as the co-defensive coordinator in 2021.
Paider's coaching philosophy centers on a blend of strategic acumen, player development, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Armed with a Master's degree in sports leadership from Concordia University Chicago, Paider brings a comprehensive understanding of the game and a commitment to the holistic development of his players.
Now, as the Defensive Coordinator at Lyon College, Paider is poised to make a significant impact on the Scots' football program. With his expertise, leadership, and unwavering dedication, Paider is committed to guiding Lyon's defense to new heights while shaping the next generation of student-athletes both on and off the field.
