The University of Delaware announced Dave Brock is its new head football coach.
It’s Brock’s first head coaching opportunity and he says been handed an “elite job."
"The University of Delaware has so much history and the foundation for success is here. It’s in the tradition, the fans, the University’s commitment to excellence and the ability to win conference and national championships. I want to stress that - the ability to win conference and national championships," said Brock, who added he believes the team has the talent to win this coming season, despite finishing 5-6 in 2012.
The 45-year-old Brock has 22 years experience as a college assistant. He was Rutgers offensive coordinator last season. His other coaching stops include also coached at Boston College, Kansas State, Temple and Hofstra.
Brock says he intends to bring a new energy to the storied Blue Hen program, on and off the field.
"Our student-athletes will play and attacking brand of football. We’re going to be exciting. We’re going to attack the classroom. We’re going to attack discipline. We’re going to attack everything we do. We’re going to do things right and we’re going to be a program the whole state will be proud of on and off the field,” said Brock.
Brock is only the fifth head football coach since 1940, replacing K.C Keeler, who was fired just under two weeks ago after 11 seasons. Unlike Keeler, Brock has no connection to the Blue Hens as a player or coach. Brock realizes that may mean he has to win some people over, but accepts that challenge.
"Nobody's going to come away from this [announcement today] and feel great about me because of something I say today. I think you show them. You go out, work and be visible. You recruit like you can't make it up. You put a great product on the field. You make sure your players are great citizens. You make sure [the players} have a great experience," said Brock. "If we accomplish thos things, and I think we will, you'll find the focus will no longer be on me."
Athletic Director Eric Ziady said Brock has all the attributes he’s looking for personally and professionally in a head coach – but noted one that helped tip the balance.
"Recruiting is one thing I certainly put more weight on on the professional side," said Ziady. "Recruiting the lifeline of any athletic program. So, that has to be first and foremost on your mind. You not only have to be able to lead young men, but you have to recruit prospective student-athletes to the University of Delaware."
Ziady added he interviewed 11 candidates for the job, including two that had UD ties, before settling on Brock.
