Northwest Iowa Community College (NCC) announces Eric Francis as the new Recreation and Athletics Director, effective July 1.
Hailing from Pocahontas, Iowa, Eric Francis brings a wealth of experience and a robust educational background to his new role. He holds an Associate of Arts with a Business Focus and Coaching Authorization from Iowa Central Community College, and has furthered his education at the University of Iowa with courses in Business and Teaching. Additionally, he earned a Bachelor’s degree in Secondary Teaching with a focus on Social Sciences from the University of Northern Iowa. He has also completed Evaluator Training by AEA and Athletic Administration classes by IHSADA.
Holding an Evaluator License and Coaching Authorization, Francis demonstrates his commitment to excellence in education and athletics. At Pocahontas Area High School, he served as Activities Director, Dean of Students, and At-Risk Coordinator. In these roles, he managed schedules, assigned officials, evaluated coaches, coordinated with the fine arts department, and handled budgets. He also addressed student concerns, deescalated situations, communicated with stakeholders, and supported at-risk students. As the Girls Basketball Coach, he managed practice schedules, communicated with players and parents, reviewed budgets, and fundraised for the program. Notably, he hosted regional and district championships for various sports.
With extensive coaching experience, Francis has spent five years as a high school girls basketball head coach (eight years as an assistant), earning the titles of Class 2A SW District Coach of the Year for 2018-2019 and Class 2A Region Co-Coach of the Year for 2018-2019 and 2022-2023. His background also includes eight years as a high school softball head coach (two years as an assistant), six years as a middle school boys track coach, and three years as a middle school football coach.
In addition to his professional roles, Francis gained valuable experience while attending the University of Iowa, where he worked in the athletic department, assisting with the setup and teardown of Hawkeye athletic events. During his time at the University of Northern Iowa (2010-2012), he participated in women’s basketball practices as a practice player, which further enhanced his understanding of athletic operations and team dynamics.
Francis is excited to bring his passion for sports and movement to Northwest Iowa Community College. “I have always been passionate about sports and movement. Growing up, I was immersed in athletics, attending games my father coached and actively participating in various sports throughout high school and college. These experiences showed me the transformative power of sports and inspired me to pursue a career in teaching and coaching. I am both excited and grateful for the opportunity to join the NCC community. I am eager to play an integral role in developing recreational and athletic opportunities for students to pursue their passions both on the field and in the classroom. I look forward to helping establish the foundational blocks for new athletic programs, enabling students to participate in sports they are passionate about.”
We look forward to the positive impact Eric Francis will bring to our college community. Join us in welcoming him to Northwest Iowa Community College as our new Recreation and Athletics Director.
