Mr. James Whitaker

Mr. James Whitaker

James Whitaker is in his first year at Clearwater Christian College and will be taking over the men's soccer coaching position next season. His desire is to build on the tradition of excellence in the Clearwater soccer program and to attract talented players who also have a heart for God and desire to use their talents to serve Him. Coach Whitaker came to Clearwater after building a successful high school program and has a heart for discipleship within the team setting.

After a successful college playing career, Coach Whitaker played professional soccer for the South Carolina Shamrocks of the USL D3 Pro League. He also has been involved in training a number of youth club teams over the past 10 years. Coach Whitaker holds the Advanced National Diploma from the NSCAA (National Soccer Coaches Association of America).

Prior to coming to Clearwater, Coach Whitaker served as athletic director and varsity soccer coach at Hampton Park Christian School in Greenville, SC, for 10 years. During that time, his soccer teams won nearly 90% or their games and won 8 South Carolina Association of Christian Schools (SCACS) 2A state championships. He was named soccer coach of the year in South Carolina 9 out of the 10 years he was at Hampton Park, and his teams were awarded the SCACS Sportsmanship Award for nine straight years. In addition, he also served as varsity boys basketball coach for 10 years, winning 5 SCACS State Championships.

Coach Whitaker earned his master's degree in Health and Exercise Science from Furman University and his undergraduate degree from Bob Jones University.

James and his wife Beth live in Clearwater and have 2 daughters, Jillian and Madeline, who serve as team cheerleaders.