HONOLULU, Hawai'i – Hawai'i Pacific University alumnus René Wagner has been named interim head coach of Bundesliga club FC Köln, marking a significant milestone in his coaching career.

Wagner, who played for HPU during the 2012-2013 season, later remained with the program as a graduate assistant coach from 2014 to 2016. His time with the Sharks helped lay the foundation for a career that has now reached one of the top professional leagues in the world.

Now stepping into a leadership role at FC Köln, Wagner takes on the challenge of guiding a club competing at the highest level of German soccer.

HPU Athletics celebrates Wagner's accomplishment as a reflection of the global impact of its alumni. From the pitch in Hawai'i to the Bundesliga, Wagner's journey highlights the continued growth and success of former Sharks beyond their collegiate careers.

The HPU ohana proudly supports Wagner as he begins this new chapter with FC Köln.