Ben MacRae

Head Men's Soccer Coach  ·  2023 NJCAA Division II National Champion

Entering his 13th season as head men's soccer coach at Iowa Lakes Community College, Ben MacRae has established the Lakers as one of the premier junior college soccer programs in the nation.

MacRae owns an overall record of 161-57-13 across 231 matches. He led Iowa Lakes to the 2023 NJCAA Division II National Championship and five NJCAA National Tournament appearances in 2020, 2021, 2023, 2024 and 2025.

During that span, the Lakers reached the national semifinals in 2020 and 2024 and captured the 2025 ICCAC regular-season championship.

Career Highlights

Developing Players for the Next Level

MacRae's impact extends far beyond wins and championships. He has helped more than 30 student-athletes advance to NCAA Division I programs, while numerous former Lakers have continued their careers at NCAA Division II, NCAA Division III and NAIA institutions.

Several Iowa Lakes alumni have also moved into the professional game, competing in Major League Soccer, the USL Championship and USL League One.

The program's success is built around more than soccer. MacRae places a strong emphasis on academic achievement, personal responsibility, leadership and preparing student-athletes to succeed after leaving Iowa Lakes.

Prior Coaching Success

Before joining Iowa Lakes, MacRae built a championship program at Spencer High School in Iowa. He compiled a 270-70-1 record, led the Tigers to the 2009 Iowa state championship and earned multiple state and national coaching honors.

Playing Background

Originally from England, MacRae represented South of England Schools and Ardingly College during his playing career. He competed in four National Cup Finals and was invited into the Southampton School of Excellence.

Coaching Education

MacRae holds the UEFA B License, USSF B License and NCAA Goalkeeping Diploma. He also serves as a USSF Coach Educator, helping develop and mentor coaches throughout the region.

“Our goal is to compete for championships while helping every student-athlete grow academically, personally and athletically. We want players to leave Iowa Lakes prepared to succeed at the next level and beyond the game.” — Ben MacRae