Alumni News – October 2025

In October’s edition of alumni news, we’ll introduce you to Maroons who’ve returned to Roanoke College to serve as coaches in the Athletic Department. 

Chuckie Tenbusch ’21 joined the staff at Roanoke College this fall as an assistant coach of the Maroon men’s soccer team. Tenbusch was a member of the team during the 2019 and short 2020 NCAA seasons.  

After earning his B.S. in sports management, he continued his soccer career at Johnson and Wales University while earning his graduate degree. Before his return to Salem, he coached club soccer for the Virginia Reign and held the position of assistant athletic director and assistant coach for the boys’ soccer team at Bruton High School in Williamsburg, Virginia. The Bruton High School boys’ soccer team appeared in the VHSL final four in 2024 and 2025. 

“I always knew I wanted to coach at the college level,” Tenbusch said. “I always admired Coach Pflugrad's coaching style and the way he ran his program. The reason I came back to Roanoke is because of the family culture that not only the team provides but also the school. Everyone is always smiling in Salem, and I felt it was a great program and legendary head coach to learn under.”  

After four years of conference play, Krista DeModna ’25 has returned to the Roanoke women’s field hockey team, this time as assistant coach. Her Maroon athletic career included playing in 58 games with 43 starts. She led the team as captain her senior year. At Roanoke, she earned her B.A. in health and exercise science. 

Though adjusting to life in Roanoke was difficult at first, field hockey and the friendships she developed made the transition easier. “This opportunity means so much to me, as I was not just returning to the campus I grew to love but also gave me the chance to give back to the program, community and the sport that has shaped who I am today," DeModna said when speaking about the coaching position. 

Wyatt Whitlow ’24 began his role as offensive coordinator and assistant coach of the Roanoke men’s lacrosse team this fall. Regarded as one of the top offensive performers in school history, he gained multiple honors as a Maroon student-athlete. Over the years, he’s assisted with many lacrosse camps and travel teams. 

When asked why he returned to coach at Roanoke College, Whitlow said, “First, I love the Roanoke Valley and the scenic landscapes that surround it. Being a student-athlete at Roanoke College meant a lot to me and made my decision to return much easier. I’m excited to learn from an established head coach and elevate our offensive capabilities. Looking forward to a great year and I’m happy to be a part of the coaching staff at Roanoke College.” 

Kylee Draper ’25 has moved off the court and to the sidelines as the newest assistant coach for the Maroon women’s volleyball team. After four years of conference play, she’s giving back in this new role. In addition to coaching at Roanoke, she coaches for the Roanoke United Volleyball Club. Draper earned her degree in business administration from Roanoke College.