Lutheran West Welcomes Dan Shifley as Next Head Football Coach & Program Director

December 16, 2025

Rocky River, Ohio — Lutheran West is pleased to announce the hiring of Daniel Shifley as its new Head Football Coach and Program Director, effective immediately.

Shifley brings more than 15 years of high school football coaching and athletic leadership experience to Lutheran West, along with a strong background in education, mentorship, and faith-based leadership. His career reflects a commitment to building disciplined, competitive, and character-driven football programs that prioritize student-athlete development both on and off the field.

Most recently, Shifley has served as a Varsity Offensive and Defensive Line Coach at Fairview Park High School, where he has played a key role in program success, record-setting performances, and multiple playoff appearances. Throughout his tenure there and at previous schools, he was instrumental in mentoring student-athletes, developing strength and conditioning programs, and fostering leadership and sportsmanship.

Shifley’s coaching resume includes varsity leadership roles at North Ridgeville High School, Cleveland Benedictine High School, Oregon Clay High School, St. Francis De Sales High School, Ottawa Hills High School, and Galion High School. He has served as a defensive coordinator, special teams coordinator, position coach across multiple units, and has been part of five programs that advanced to the OHSAA playoffs. Several of his athletes have earned All-Ohio recognition under his guidance.

Shifley is a licensed Physical Education teacher (PK–12) and currently teaches Physical Education and Health at St. Paul Westlake, working with students from preschool through eighth grade. His experience across K–12 education strengthens his ability to build a cohesive football program rooted in long-term athlete development, accountability, and leadership.

A former Division II football student-athlete at Ashland University, Shifley has a Bachelor of Science in Education. 

He is active in community service and youth mentorship, including church-based education and volunteer initiatives.

As Head Football Coach and Program Director, Shifley will oversee all aspects of the Lutheran West football program, including player development, coaching leadership and program culture. His vision emphasizes discipline, teamwork, faith, and competitive excellence.

Lutheran West looks forward to the leadership, experience, and passion Coach Shifley brings to the Longhorns football program and welcomes him to the Lutheran West community.