Get To Know The Cadre

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Everything Brett does is to inspire and empower others to be brave, creative, leaders for life. Brett grew up playing a variety of sports through highschool to include tennis, hockey and soccer. Brett continued to persue his favorite sports in college where he played for the ICC Cougers Men's Soccer Team and then the Illinois State University Ice Hawks Men's hockey team.

Upon graduation from Woodruff Highschool, he enlisted in the United States Air Force. For the last 23 years, Brett continues to serve in the 182d Airlift Wing as the Wing First Sergeant. Parallel to serving in the military, Brett has worked at Caterpillar since 2005 in a variety of roles. When Brett is not serving in the Air National Guard or at working at Caterpillar, he is coaching soccer. He  has been coaching for 10 plus years and have worked with youth club teams in the Peoria area, the Washington Panthers women's team and most recently the women's team at Monmouth College. 

In his spare time, he enjoys challenging himself in a varity of endurance events to include Ironman Triathlons and Ultra Marathon running. 

Josh Edwards is a global data and digital leader recognized for using technologies and analytics to deliver superior business results. He leads the Black & Veatch data science and operations teams using advanced data analytics and technology to better inform business decisions that drive operations and growth. 

In addition, he is a passionate and experienced soccer coach with a proven track record of guiding athletes to achieve both personal and team achievements. His focus and expertise are on building positive team first cultures and helping team captains lead with confidence that is conducive to the overall success and wellness of the athletic organization.

He previously served in the US Army as an Air Assault Combat Engineer with the 3rd Armored Cavalry Regiment ("Brave Rifles") and 6th Infantry Division (“Red Stars”). He was awarded the Southwest Asia Kuwait Liberation and Army Achievement medals for his meritorious service and achievements during Desert Shield and Desert Storm. He’s an avid supporter of veteran related causes and currently serves as President of his local chapter of the American Legion Riders who actively fundraise for local veteran charities.

With over 40 years of involvement in competitive soccer as both a player and coach, William Hudson is a highly experienced and dedicated professional in the field. Currently serving as the Owner/Director of Coaching for HappyFeet Legends of Peoria, William is instrumental in the development of youth soccer in the Peoria/Bloomington metro areas through a curriculum-based program.

William's coaching journey encompasses a diverse range of positions. He has held the role of Head Women's Coach at Illinois Central College and Washington Community High School, where he coached the varsity girls' soccer team. In addition, William has previously worked with high schools such as Rock Island High School and Alleman High School. From 1999 to 2001, he served as the Head Women's Coach and Assistant Men's Coach at Marycrest International University.

A passion for coaching and nurturing young soccer players lies at the heart of William's career. He has contributed to the development of numerous clubs, including the Peoria Legends, Morton United, Bettendorf Soccer Association, Moline Soccer Association, St. Paul Blackhawks, and the Rock Island Rebels. Through these experiences, William has honed his ability to guide and mentor players of all ages.

Furthermore, William brings valuable playing experience to his coaching endeavors. He was a four-year starter and received All-Section honors during his time at Rock Island High School that propelled him to playing Division I soccer at Bradley University. He also participated in the Olympic Development Program (ODP) in Illinois, Prairie State Games, Iowa Games, and played for various club teams in the Quad Cities. This firsthand experience on the field allows him to connect with players and provide them with valuable insights.

As a licensed USSF coach, William's dedication extends to the development of youth soccer programs spanning from ages 2 to 22. His commitment to creating a positive and engaging learning environment has made him a respected figure in the soccer community. With his extensive background, passion for the sport, and emphasis on player development, William Hudson continues to make a significant impact in the world of youth soccer.

Chris Korger has been a commercial airline pilot for Southwest Airlines since 2004. He is currently a Boeing 737 Captain and Check Pilot in the Southwest Flight Standards Department.  There he is focused on training new captains and first officers in the class room, simulator and in the airplane. He also helps administer emergency procedures training and flight proficiency evaluations for the more than 10,000 pilots at the company. 

A life long soccer enthusiast, Chris picked up a soccer ball for the first time in 1977. While still in high school Chris began coaching competitive youth soccer.  Chis has pursued that interest for the last four decades and has coached several recreational and club teams in the Peoria area.  Chris feels that in the proper environemnt, competitive youth sports teach critical lessions that set players up for success in their future endeavors off the field. 

Prior to flying for Southwest, Chris served as an Instructor Pilot in the United States Air Force.  There he logged over 3,500 hours flying the Lockheed-Martin C-130 Hercules and served 26 years in uniform.  While on active duty and as a member of the Illinois Air National Guard, Chris flew a variety of tactical airlift and airdrop missions spanning every continent including Antarctica.  A veteran of numerous deployments including NATO operations in the former Yugoslavia, Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, Chris flew more than 300 combat sorties over Bosnia, Kosovo, Afghanistan, Iraq and the Horn of Africa.  He completed his military career mentoring high school students as an Admissions Liasion Officerfor the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado. Chris's individual awards include the Meritorious Service Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster, The Air Medal with 6 Oak Leaf Clusters, the Aerial Achievement Medal with 7 Oak Leaf Clusters and the Air Force Accommodation Medal with Oak Leaf Cluster.