The Ashland University football team's climb to a No. Our season had ended, [and]it didn't look likely that we would be selected," Martinelli said of the team which went 9-1 in the regular season. 1 defense in Division II and were one of few that were left undefeated up until Week Nine where they fell to the Hillsdale Chargers on the road. The schedule we played, the people we beat … we beat Grand Valley when Brian Kelly was the head coach two out of four years. The assistant coach will be involved in drills and exercises that include the whole team and position groups. AU athletics sees strong fall season in Learfield Directors Cup, Eagle basketball on the road in the 2022-2023 season, AU Call of Duty eSports team wins league championship, What is STUNT? "Ashland fans, Ashland people care about their program," Martinelli said, "and they have strongly supported the coach and the team throughout. He had just been let go by the University of Akron. . "He was very disciplined in his approach to the game and oversaw the development not only for the football program, but also as AD, he was responsible for the entire athletic program. Turnbaugh started his streak during a couple of important Great Midwest Athletic Conference victories by the Eagles. The assistant at Michigan [Frank Maloney]got it. The . "I'm excited to introduce Doug as our head football coach," King said. He graduated from Triway High School . It's what have you done for me recently. Complete Release (PDF). The Eagles (28-0) once again pace the WBCA NCAA Division II Top 25 Coaches Poll going into the 2023 Great Midwest Athletic Conference . Dougs vision aligns with the goals and objectives of the department and the university. But I really think it was that particular evening with coach Cooper that the seed was planted. All Rights Reserved, Linebackers coach/freshman defensive coordinator, Offensive line coach/defensive coordinator, Offensive coordinator/offensive line coach/head junior varsity coach, Graduate assistant (1995-96)/tight ends coach/video coordinator (1997-2003), Associate head coach (2007-22)/offensive line coach/run game coordinator/pro liaison/interim head coach. Example video title will go here for this video. On the positive side, this . If you can't make it yet, take our virtual campus tour to get a quick look at the university. Keller's defenses led NCAA Division II in total defense in both 1991 and 1992, and rushing defense in 1992. "Throughout the search process, we talked about integrity, commitment and work ethic," Athletic Director Al King said in a press conference. While Martinelli was at Ashland for three-and-a-half decades, he said there were a couple opportunities to move higher on the coaching ladder. Keller was 51-55 (.481) at the Ashland helm, won the Midwest Intercollegiate Football Conference title in 1997and was the MIFC Coach of the Year that season. The Cavaliers came in as the conference's regular-season champion, and tournament number one seed, but the Pioneers ran away from Walsh in the second half for an . Prior to Ashland, Geiser was at the University of Akron from 1995-2003 as a graduate assistant (1995-96), and tight ends coach/video coordinator (1997-2003). We had a pretty long home winning streak [12 games]here.". Still, his legacy had not yet been written. "I don't think my feet have touched the ground since I received the call from Al," said Geiser. Outside of players, he coached alongside countless coaches, faculty and staff and interacted with countless fans and media members. [6] He is also father to a son, Zander, and daughter, Zoe. 3292 (626) 815-6000, Ext. And, as announced by AU Director of Athletics Al King on Tuesday (Jan. 3) afternoon, Geiser will stay home and become the program's 15 th head coach. Owens held the position for 18 years, and is one of just three head coaches Ashland has employed since 1959. That stability in leadership is key for our current players and our recruits.". AU won its opening-round NCAA Division II playoff game 20-13 over Notre Dame College. "Only three head coaches during that span stands as a testament to the quality of the football program. Full Bio. That wont change. I have a special thing for that team.". Owens is the third Ohio-based coach to be president of the AFCA this decade, following Cincinnati's Tommy Tuberville (2015) and Mount Union's Larry Kehres (2010). "The tradition of Ashland football is very strong," said Geiser. - Offensive linemen who have earned seven All-Great Midwest and 30 All-GLIAC honors. "Hunting, fishing and golfing has always gotten in the way of football, but lately, it seems like football has gotten . Owens was fired despite a 7-5 campaign in 2003. Meyer, Texas Christian University, 1997 Don Nehlen, West Virginia University, 1950 Lynn O. Waldorf, University of California, 1998 Roy Kidd, Eastern Kentucky University, 1952 Carl G. Snavely, University of North Carolina, 1954 George A. Munger, University of Pennsylvania, 2003 Phil Fulmer, University of Tennessee, 1958 Charles B. Wilkinson, University of Oklahoma, 2006 Mel Tjeerdsma, Northwest Missouri State University, 1959 Wallace Butts, University of Georgia, 1960 Charles A. Engle, Pennsylvania State University, 2008 Tyrone Willingham, University of Washington, 1961 Jack C. Curtice, Stanford University, 2009 Dick Tomey, San Jose State University, 2010 Larry Kehres, University of Mount Union, 1965 Abe Martin, Texas Christian University, 1967 Ben Schwartzwalder, Syracuse University, 1968 Murray Warmath, University of Minnesota, AU Football Coach Lee Owens Named AFCA President. "One, where Doyt Perry, who was the Athletic Director at Bowling Green, interviewed me, asked me if he offered the job to me … what would keep me from taking a job at Bowling Green? We could provide a good argument for Bill Royce because of the great schedule we played, and the great coaches [we played]. YEAR:19th in 2022-23 (first as head coach in 2023) It adds consistency and teaching and relationships, Geiser said. Turnbaugh, a 6-1, 215-pound senior from Barberton, has been playing his best football as an Eagle lately, achieving three consecutive 100-yard receiving games before catching four passes for 62 yards and a touchdown Saturday in a 31-23 win over Lake Erie. "I'll be forever grateful for Bill doing that because I don't know what would have happened or where i would have gone but this was the perfect fit and the right place to be, I know that will all my heart now.". I could go on and on about what Lee [Owens] has accomplished, said Athletic Director Al King. The line has given me time to make some throws. Hell represent Ashland University with class and poise.. A program which began in 1920, Ashland football has won 520 games all-time, and boasts three undefeated seasons, two other undefeated regular seasons, eight NCAA Division II postseason appearances, three D-II postseason wins, 17 conference championships, two College Football Hall of Famers, 19 first-team All-Americans, 22 Academic All-Americans, and three members of the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) Good Works Team. A highly-accomplished program leader with a 153-89 career record in eight seasons as a women's volleyball head coach, Foeman departs an Ashland University . Ashland University's head coach Lee Owens on the sideline against Notre Dame College during their NCAA Division II college football playoff game at Jack Miler Stadium Saturday, Nov. 19, 2022. Owens reflected back on those people he had worked with at AU for nearly two decades, possibly none as important as when he first got his start by then-AU athletics director Bill Goldring. Geiser, a native of the Wooster area, had served as Owens' top assistant for most of his tenure. Other major personnel are: Although their season was cut short in a round two loss to the Indiana University of Pennsylvania, 19-13, the Eagles have plenty to be proud of. "Coach(Tim) Rosehas been able to continue that reputation, which is really important. We ask that you consider turning off your ad blocker so we can deliver you the best experience possible while you are here. Ashland traces its past 60-plus seasons through just four head coaches. He'll represent Ashland University with class and poise." This game was different. TOM E. PUSKAR/ASHLAND . The sports at Ashland are led by 21 head coaches, 10 of whom coach male teams, 10 of whom spearhead women's teams, and 1 of whom leads a coed team. The Eagles finished their season at a record of 10-2, with a Great Midwest Athletic Conference title in their hands and an NCAA Division II Postseason appearance. "The state of Ohio has always been so well represented in our association," Owens said. At the conclusion of the season, Owens was named the AFCA Division II Region 3 Coach of the Year and the GLIAC Coach of the Year. 6 national ranking reflects the domination the Eagles have shown in jumping out to a 4-0 start. . Owens was elected to the AFCA Board of Trustees in 2007. In '72, a tip of a fingernail on a pass in our first game against Franklin … our '72 team, wow. "I had players recruited by both coach Martinelli and coach Keller when I was a high school coach. Founded in 1878 as Ashland College, the name of the institution was changed to Ashland University in 1989 to reflect the many diverse undergraduate, graduate and professional programs offered. He worked his way up from graduate assistant to tight ends coach before following his mentor to Ashland, spending his entire tenure as offensive line coach while also adding the associate head coach title in 2007. Owens has led the Eagles to the program's two NCAA postseason victories 27-16 over Minnesota State-Mankato in 2008 in the team's final game at Community Stadium, and 21-18 over Northwest Missouri State in 2017 at Jack Miller Stadium/Martinelli Field. Dusty Sloan, Ashland University Director of Athletic Communications. During his illustrious 19-year career at Ashland University, he had the opportunity to coach an NFL talent in tight end Adam Shaheen, numerous program record-setting players and players who have defied the odds when stepping onto the football field. "I remember going to the banquet where he presided," said Owens, "and you think about that and the impression that it made. . Get opinion pieces, letters and editorials sent directly to . "It definitely speaks to the quality of life in Ashland, Ohio. One of those coaches that stood out was Defensive Coordinator Tim Rose. Owens is 89-42 (.679) at Ashland, with a pair of GLIAC titles and three GLIAC Coach of the Year honors to his credit. He'll represent Ashland University with class and poise.". Im extremely lucky in that case. Ashland University football player Garrett Turnbaugh would likely trade his current pass-catching streak for a win over Hillsdale. And the beat goes on. Martinelli lauded then-Ashland College PresidentGlenn Claytonand Athletic DirectorRobert Brownsonfor the emphasis they put on the football program in the 1950s, giving rise to what is seen today. In all, Keller spent 23 seasons on the Ashland coaching staff. It was nice to be able to get back in the mix (in 2021), Turnbaugh said. "Our goal is to build upon that legacy and to take Eagle football to heights it's never before seen, on and off the field." It's a great place to live, a great place to raise a family. "We've not had great success in the postseason. I'm both honored and humbled to have been chosen for this position.". Bierman, University of Minnesota, 1983 Bo Schembechler, University of Michigan, 1938 Harry A. Stuhldreher, University of Wisconsin, 1986 Vic Rowen, San Francisco State University, 1987 LaVell Edwards, Brigham Young University, 1941 Fritz Crisler, University of Michigan, 1942 Madison Bell, Southern Methodist University, 1990 John Majors, University of Tennessee, 1943 Madison Bell, Southern Methodist University, 1946 Richard C. Harlow, Harvard University, 1996 Fisher DeBerry, U.S. Air Force Academy, 1949 L.R. "They played undue circumstances. It's quite a feat for Ashland University to have two members in the Hall, when, according to the Hall itself, only 0.02% of college football's players and coaches have been enshrined. Prior to playing in the NFL, Novotny played college football at Ashland University. "When you reflect back, it's not what level you coach at, it's not how big the job is or what the job is all about, it's where you're at, and what you can get done where you're at," Owens said. "There's only two Division II head coaches on the board, and there's a bunch of Division II schools. "That's awesome we were able to get those kinds of things done at AU. And at the time, I told him my daughter had leukemia, and I was uncertain of making the move. For Geiser, being named Eagles head coach continues a football coaching ascent that began at his alma mater, Triway High School in nearby Wooster, Ohio, in 1990. Ashland set the tone by scoring four runs in the top of the first inning. This accomplished staff helped us to win a conference championship and qualify for the NCAA playoffs in 2022. Like Brenner, Owens said the reason you coach has everything to do with the players you work with. For Geiser, being named Eagles head coach continues a football coaching ascent that began at his alma mater, Triway High School in nearby Wooster, Ohio, in 1990. With countless ups and downs, more ups than downs, Owens has decided after a stellar 2022-2023 to announce his official retirement. Geiser had been the program's interim head coach for the last month, and had been on Owens' staff every year since both came to campus prior to the 2004 season. I'm looking back, and I'm thinking that I really didn't do justice to the program, when I've got that many responsibilities.". "I'm excited to introduce Doug as our head football coach," King said. Ashland University's head coach Lee Owens is seen on the sideline against Notre Dame College during college football action at Jack Miller Stadium, Thursday, Sept. 1, 2022. "What a great advantage it is to have them continue as a part of Eagle football. He graduated from Triway High School in 1990. If you do the same as you did before you get the same result. I think (quarterback) Austin (Brenner) and he have a good connection and theyve got a lot of confidence in each other right now.. ", Said Martinelli, "Gary was a great coach. Looking back, I really wasn't prepared [to leave]. Ashland University seeks candidates for the head football coaching position. 12-ranked Eagles moved on to the second round of the postseason on Nov. 26 at Indiana, Pa., losing 19-13 to No. Geiser came to Ashland with Owens, spending the last 16 years as associate head coach, and also serving as offensive line coach, run game coordinator and pro liaison. PREVIOUS COLLEGE:Cornell '92. He excelled as a high school coach, and I am sure he will do the same at the collegiate level. "It's one of the best jobs in Division II football. - Seven All-American offensive linemen -Blake Dickson,Vince Cashdollar,Reggie Gamble,Justin Magruder,Zachary Douglass,Dominic GiuntaandJohn Conner. We want to celebrate this though. The fact that I was at Ashland University and in the GLIAC was a big consideration when the coaches voted. Visit a Dining Hall. His career as an Ashland University head coach finished with a record of 137-61 with three Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference titles and one GMAC title. They taught us that AU football is built on brotherhood, on teamwork, on camaraderie, on love and the willingness to sacrifice for your fellow man. A private university located in the heart of Ohio, Ashland University values and encourages student individuality. Ashland continues to have a rich tradition as a private, comprehensive institution preparing students for exciting professions . By far the greatest place I have ever worked at.. In addition to the team success, some of the notable accomplishments for Geiser's pupils in his time at AU include: Raymond John Novotny Sr. was an American football player and coach. Were not like every other school, and what we talk about are values they really do matter, he said. Now with the Niss Athletic Center also being a game-changer when it comes to recruiting, Owens said the football program and other athletic programs at AU also are primed for future success. "I think in all three coaches, from a geography perspective, from our backgrounds, where we coached, we we'd been, Ashland was a great fit. I think just something hes always had is the way he competes. It was the first time I was really humbled in my coaching career because I was able to be recruited from every other school I'd been at to go to the next job," Owens said. ASHLAND The Doug Geiser era is officially underway at Ashland University. "I grew up 10 miles south of here, and watched games as a high school player here, and followed the team when coach Martinelli was here," Owens said. He succeeds Lee Owens, who announced his retirement on Dec. 2 following a 19-year tenure as Eagles coach. 1/12/2016 ASHLAND, Ohio - AU head football coach Lee Owens is entering his 13thseason leading the Eagles in 2016, but he is adding another title to the top of his resume this year, as well. Owens moved on to the college game as an assistant at Ohio State under John Cooper before being hired as Akron's head coach in 1995. His nine years at the helm saw the Zips post a 40-61 record (7-2 against rival Kent State) with three winning seasons, but they failed to win or even play for a Mid-American Conference championship. Ashland-Collegianreporter Brayden Creveling had the opportunity to sit down with Owens earlier in the season where he expressed underlying thoughts of a potential retirement. "Our goal is to build upon that legacy and to take Eagle football to heights it's never before seen, on and off the field," Geiser declared. Overview. Sophomore first baseman Sam Witt 's sacrifice fly was followed two at-bats later by sophomore catcher Ben . It just so happens weve been able to get some plays together, connect deep and stack up some yards., This article originally appeared on Ashland Times Gazette: Ashland University senior Garrett Turnbaugh having best season, Ashland University senior Garrett Turnbaugh having best season. The last Eagles receiver to record at least 100 yards in three straight games was Matthew Wilcox in games two through four in 2017. Copyright 2023 Ashland University Athletics. Two of the philosophies which have carried over from Martinelli to Keller to Owens, despite the changes in the sport in more than a half-century, are have great defenses and run the football well. Needless to say, Sean Seder grew up in the shadows and footsteps of his family's legends, but they were role models for him to look up to. Both Martinelli and defensive endBill Royceare in the College Football Hall of Fame. It's something, as we start into the next 100 years of football here, that would be a goal, is to not only get into the postseason, but advance into regionals and semifinals and national championship game. So if you want to take that beyond, youve got to find a way to go beyond your preparation, so thats what we want to instill in this new group of Eagles.. 3 in the country, AU mens basketball looks to GMAC season-opener, No. Wash. FSP 7-on-7 / San Mateo Community College. And everything that happens at that level eventually trickles down to our level. Our guided tour takes you through AU to explore our dynamic campus. As long as I coach, I would like to continue to serve. The times are going to change. Fortunately, we've had those kind of people.". Geiser had been the program's interim head coach for the last month, and had been on Owens' staff every year since both came to campus prior to the 2004 season. Following the season, Owens earned Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference Football Co-Coach of the Year and AFCA Division II Region 3 Coach of the Year honors. I am very happy for John, but even more pleased for all the kids' lives that he has influenced as a coach during that time. The pressure of trying to win … has really eliminated the opportunity for someone to go into a program and stay at that program. Following five seasons as a high school assistant at three stops, Geiser joined the University of Akron coaching staff under Owens first as a graduate assistant in 1995-96, then as tight ends coach and video coordinator from 1997-2003. When Martinelli retired, it was a natural fit for Keller to take over the program. Martinelli,Gary KellerandLee Owensare the only head coaches of Ashland College/University football in the last six-plus decades. 2 in the country, Womens basketball sits No. "I feel honored to be a part of the great tradition that has existed at Ashland for that amount of time," Keller said. Hes committed to giving our student-athletes a quality experience, King said. Ashland University is located in Ashland, OH . He took over a good program, but we needed to make changes. But I look back at the IUP game, it didnt seem like a loss, said Owens. "There were two instances," he said. We are truly celebrating the loss. Dec 3, 2022. The only way to celebrate a loss is to know you really are not losing anything.. Petzing and head coach Kevin Stefanski both coached for the Minnesota Vikings before being . Regardless of how much success you have, you feel like you're always going to be in the shadows of a coach with that kind of recognition. Doug exemplifies all of those attributes. Ashland University football coach Lee Owens announced Friday his retirement after leading the Eagles for the past 19 seasons. We think every single thing we do matters; thats what we believe at Ashland. News Radio 98.3FM & 1400AM, WMAN - Mansfield's News, Weather and Sports Station, WMAN High School Basketball Game of the Week, Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information. While at Ashland, he earned All-American honors in 1929. For all of the success Martinelli had, he did share one regret. On the money side of things, the Ashland football program brought home $2,079,102 in revenue and paid out $2,079,102 in total expenses. Martinelli said, "John, he coached defensive linemen at the next level, no question about it. Hes been getting open. Going into the 1959 season, Ashland College's football program hadn't seen much in the way of wins or long-term stability. I looked at the position that he held at that time. Finishing with a win this year would be tough. Owens has spent all of his football coaching life in Ohio, and having grown up nearby at Mansfield Madison High School, and having coached nearby at Crestview and Galion High Schools, he was well acquainted with the Eagles prior to coming here. Ashland University football coach Lee Owens announced Friday his retirement after leading the Eagles for the past 19 seasons. This was Ashland University's highest ranking since becoming an NCAA Division II institution. The Ashland University football team held its annual national signing day on Wednesday, and veteran coach Lee Owens was elated over his new list of recruits. "It's always about a fit," Owens said. He also led AU to its highest-ever ranking of No. About Ashland University. Former Ashland University football coach Dr. Fred Martinelli was honored in 2017 with a pillar for his years of service at AU. Looking ahead to the 2023 season, Geiser said not much is going to change with the expectations of the players and team. [5] He and his wife, Angie, have two daughters, Addison and Avery. The Eagles now without a permanent head coach will begin the search to replace Owens, but for now, the interim head coach has been named Doug Geiser. Geiser came to Ashland with Owens, spending the last 16 years as associate head coach, and also serving as offensive line coach, run game coordinator and pro liaison. Owens finishes his 19-year career with a 137-61 record.