Southwestern University Names Bill Kriesel as Permanent Head Football Coach
Following a strong start to the 2024 season as interim head football coach, Southwestern University has named Bill Kriesel as the permanent head coach of the Pirates football program.
Known for his commitment to developing well-rounded student-athletes, Coach Bill Kriesel has quickly gained admiration on campus for his competitive spirit, dedication to academic success, and positive impact on team culture.
Under Kriesel’s guidance, the Pirates have shown remarkable improvement on the field. His approach to coaching has not only led to increased competitiveness but has also fostered a supportive, academically-focused environment for his players. Coach Kriesel has introduced study tables in the new tutoring center and collaboration with the Career Center, underscoring his commitment to both athletic and academic excellence.
“Bill Kriesel has made an immediate positive impact on our football program and I am thrilled he will be our full-time coach moving forward. His passion for Division III football is infectious and you can see how it has positively impacted the students in our program,” said Athletic Director Ken Ralph. “Through his efforts, football is now more fully engaged in the fabric of campus culture. I’m looking forward to seeing where the program can go under his leadership.”
President Laura Skandera Trombley echoed Ralph’s sentiments. “Coach Kriesel embodies the values we hold dear at Southwestern, demonstrating a remarkable dedication to both athletic excellence and academic growth. He has not only strengthened the competitiveness of our football program but has also fostered a culture of unity and purpose that inspires our entire community. I am confident that under his leadership, our football program will continue to flourish and positively impact the lives of our student-athletes.”
Kriesel, a member of the modern program’s original coaching staff, joined Southwestern as defensive backs coach in 2013. Promoted to co-defensive coordinator in 2015, he led his starting cornerbacks to All-SCAC honors. Kriesel took sole responsibility for the defense in 2016, steering the Pirates to the top of the SCAC in scoring defense, passing defense, and total defense en route to the SCAC Championship. Kriesel’s defense continued to dominate in the American Southwest Conference (ASC) finishing twice in the top three. Prior to Southwestern, Kriesel coached at Augsburg University and played football professionally in Germany.
“This is a truly humbling and exciting opportunity for myself and my family,” Kriesel said. “I want to extend my gratitude to President Trombley, Vice President for Strategic Recruitment and Enrollment Tom Delahunt, and Athletic Director Ken Ralph for having faith in me to lead these incredible young men. Our program will relentlessly pursue excellence on the field, in the classroom, and in the community. Our fans and alumni deserve a team full of players and coaches who are proud to wear black and gold.”
