Washburn University names new head football coach

TOPEKA (KSNT) - Washburn University has named its new head football coach to lead the Ichabods.

Lori Hutchinson with Washburn University said in a press release on Nov. 26 that Zach Watkins will be leading the next era of the college's football team. He is a former All-American linebacker and 11-year member of WU's coaching staff. He will serve as the 38th head football coach in the football program's history and will be the first WU alumnus to fill the role in more than 30 years.

“Coach Watkins has a detailed plan to power the program forward. While the position attracted a lot of interest from other coaching candidates, we are confident the best candidate is already on our sideline,” said Loren Fereé, athletics director, Washburn University. “Zach brings a deep understanding of what it takes to win in the MIAA and is hitting the ground running. Having earned the respect and support of his players as well as other coaches in the conference, Zach is well prepared to take this program to the next level and keep it there.”

Watkins replaces former head football coach Craig Schurig who was at the helm of the team for the past 22 seasons. The university announced he would be leaving the position on Nov. 18.

"Coach Watkins is deeply committed to Washburn University and the Ichabod Football program, striving to compete for championships each and every season," said Washburn University President JuliAnn Mazachek. "I have full confidence in Zach's leadership abilities and his vision for the future. His strong relationships with current players as well as connections to incoming recruits will help to ensure we retain our talent and grow this program into a national Division II powerhouse."

Hutchinson said Watkins started coaching at Northwest Missouri State and Fort Hays State University before later returning to WU. He has served in the roles of associate head coach and co-defensive coordinator with his alma mater. More than 50 Ichabods he has coached have received all-MIAA honors on the defensive side and he has directly coached 23 all-MIAA selections which includes 10 linebackers, three punters, three placekickers and seven defensive backs.

“I would like to thank President Mazachek and Athletic Director Fereé for this incredible opportunity,” Watkins said. “I am humbled and excited to be chosen to lead the outstanding young men in this football program. Washburn helped shape me into the man I am today and I am grateful to pay that forward in the lives of our student-athletes.” 

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