Valparaiso turns to Andy Waddle for football coaching revival
- Andy Waddle was hired as head football coach for Valparaiso, as confirmed by athletic director Laurel Hosmer.
- Waddle previously coached Marietta College, improving the team's record from a winless season to a competitive level, including a 13-game winning streak.
- His hiring follows the end of Landon Fox's contract, during which he led Valparaiso to a 21-42 record over six seasons.
In Valparaiso, Indiana, the university's athletic director Laurel Hosmer announced the hiring of Andy Waddle as the new head football coach. This decision, made public two weeks ago, followed the end of the previous coach Landon Fox's contract after a disappointing six-season tenure where he achieved a 21-42 record. Waddle brings with him a wealth of experience as a former head coach of Marietta College's football program in Ohio, where he managed to transform a winless team into a competitive squad, achieving a 13-game winning streak and the school's first postseason appearance since 1973. Andy Waddle had spent the last twelve seasons at Marietta, where he significantly improved the team’s performance. His coaching record ended at 55-61, significant given the circumstances of taking over a team that struggled over the prior years. The highlight of his recent coaching career included leading the Pioneers to an 8-0 record at the start of the season, a feat not accomplished since 1920, indicating his capability to build a winning culture and develop young athletes. His experience coaching at prestigious institutions, including Wittenberg University, further adds to his qualifications. Waddle expressed enthusiasm about his move to Valparaiso, indicating that he sees a great group of young athletes ready to develop further. He spoke of his commitment to investing his time and effort into building the program and bringing in more high-quality players to uplift the football team’s culture and success. The new coach's vision also aligns with the school's need for a refreshing change following the lack of success under the previous coaching regime. Laurel Hosmer, in a statement, highlighted Waddle’s integrity, winning mindset, and dedication to nurturing student-athletes academically and athletically, making him a compelling choice for the position. The transition to Waddle’s leadership will be keenly observed as it comes at a critical juncture for Valparaiso football, amidst aspirations to regain competitive stature within their league and boost morale within the existing team. Waddle's introduction on campus marks an important step toward a new chapter in Valparaiso's athletic history.