Messiah University Athletics Hall of Honor
Head Coach - Men’s Soccer
1974-1996
The Messiah men’s soccer teams under Layton’s leadership were consistently successful. In 23 years, Layton directed the Falcons to a .751 winning percentage, with a 316-96-27 overall record, eight NCAA playoff berths, and two NCAA Final Four appearances – in 1986 and 1988. Two of his teams, in 1978 and 1981, won the national NCCAA championship, and Layton coached two MAC champions, in 1992 and 1995. In 1986, he was honored as Division III National Coach of the Year. In addition, under his direction six Messiah players gained All-American recognition, while 43 earned All-Region status, and 67 received All-Conference honors. His influence led many Messiah soccer alumni to go on to coach soccer at the high school and collegiate levels. As a tribute to Layton, Messiah’s soccer field is named Shoemaker Field.
