Washburn University names Watkins head football coach

    Topeka, Kan. – Washburn University kicks off an exciting new era of Ichabod Football by naming Zach Watkins to lead the program. The former All-American linebacker and 11-year member of the Washburn coaching staff becomes the 38^th head football coach in program history as well as the first Ichabod 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 Ferré, 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 began his coaching career at Northwest Missouri State and Fort Hays State University before returning to his alma mater. As part of the Washburn coaching staff, Watkins has served as both associate head coach and co-defensive coordinator. He has coached 56 Ichabods to all-MIAA honors on the defensive side and directly coached 23 all-MIAA selections including 10 linebackers, three punters, three placekickers and seven defensive backs.

    In 2017, Watkins was selected as one of 34 NCAA football coaches to attend the NCAA and NFL Coaches Academy – the only MIAA coach and one of only two from the Division II ranks.

    "Coach Watkins is deeply committed to Washburn University and the Ichabod Football program, striving to compete for championships each and every season," said 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."

    Watkins was a four-year starter at linebacker for Washburn from 2006-09, compiling an impressive career of 100 or more tackles in each season as well as a school record 473 throughout his four years. At the time, that mark placed him third all-time in NCAA Division II history.

    “I would like to thank President Mazachek and Athletic Director Ferré 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.” 

    Watkins, a native of Independence, Mo., graduated with a bachelor’s degree in business administration from Washburn University in 2009 and completed his master’s degree in sports administration at Fort Hays State in 2013. He and his wife Amanda have two children, a son, Parker, and daughter, Naomi.

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