Jallah named Lincoln (Pa.) men’s soccer coach

Jallah named Lincoln (Pa.) men’s soccer coach

August 7, 2008

LINCOLN UNIVERSITY, PA. – Lincoln University of Pennsylvania has named Z. Joseph Jallah as its men’s soccer coach.

Jallah inherits a team that finished 4-9 in 2007. He will try to lead Lincoln back to its winning ways. From 2000-2005, Lincoln had six consecutive winning seasons which resulted in a postseason appearance in the Association of Division III Independents tournament in 2005.

“I have the passion to get this job done and the challenges that come with this opportunity reminds me to ignore my excitement and allow my passion to be the driving force for running a successful program in terms of the players/students and the university,” Jallah said. “I am most excited about one thing--the opportunity to motivate and equip my players/students with the necessary skills required to be successful on and off the fields.”

Jallah will welcome back several talented players including senior midfielder Theon Francis, senior defender Jerrell Hooker, sophomore goal-keeper Andre Wilkinson and junior defender Jarek Harris. That experience will be key as Lincoln will navigate a difficult schedule that includes contests at East Stroudsburg, West Chester, Philadelphia, Chestnut Hill and Columbia Union.

Jallah is a graduate of Bartram High School in Philadelphia. He obtained his Bachelors degree in Management Science and Information Systems from Pennsylvania State University. Jallah made history by being the only black—and first African—student to be awarded a scholarship to study International Business Models in South Eastern Asia while at Penn State.

Seizing the opportunity, Jallah obtained his Certificate for International Business Studies during his tenure at the National University of Singapore. Jallah completed his Masters degree in Management and Information Systems, with high honors, at Wilmington College in 2007.

At Penn State, Jallah was a permanent player for Penn State men’s soccer club team for three years. During his time on the team, they were undefeated for the season and won more than four tournaments in one year. Jallah also served as captain for the African Student Association Soccer Team of Penn State and was awarded the MVP title. Additionally, he played soccer during his term at the National University of Singapore.
Jallah has always been instrumental in the lives of his peers.

“Having experienced life in different countries, I bring to this university practical knowledge on dealing with international players and students,” Jallah said. “I can relate to the challenges and sacrifices required to obtain an education; I can relate to the despair and obstacles ever present for the inner-city youth.”

While in high school, he co-founded and served as captain of Junior Professional Soccer Club in Philadelphia, PA—an avenue that amalgamated young males. Upon graduation, Jallah began focusing on research of placement for local players. Jallah is also the co-founder of www.LibFaces.com—a Liberian social networking portal; and he serves as Technical Consultant to Liberian businesses and organizations. Most recently, Jallah has founded YES Liberia, a non-profit organization poised for making a difference in the lives of Liberian children.

“I give my best effort in everything I do and I expect nothing less from my players,” Jallah said. “However, considering the uncertainties in players/students needs as they progress in their academic programs, my philosophy will be an ongoing process. This will effectively help me to reap the maximum potential each player has to offer.”