Anderson has named Steve Rock as the 14th head coach of the school's football program. Rock comes to Anderson after 11 seasons as an assistant coach at conference rival Franklin.
Rock was FC's assistant head coach, special teams coordinator, recruiting coordinator and linebackers coach. During his time at Franklin, the Grizzlies won 10 Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference championships and went to the post season 10 of 11 campaigns. He replaces John Sala, who compiled a 4-36 record in three seasons as head coach.
He is a 1994 graduate of IUPUI and joined the Franklin staff in the spring of 2007. Prior to Franklin, Rock coached 18 years in the Indiana high school ranks, assisting at Center Grove, Bloomington South, Lawrence Central, Plainfield and Cascade.
"I am both humbled and honored to be chosen as the new head football coach of Anderson University," said Rock. "While exploring this opportunity, I quickly realized there is a genuine concern and interest among the administration, faculty, and staff for each student. My hope is to carry that same attitude into the Raven football program making it a disciplined, family-oriented, selfless team whose members care more for the man next to him than for his own desires.
"We're thrilled to have a head coach with such significant and successful competitive experience in the HCAC and NCAA D-III football leading us into the next era of Raven football," said athletic director Marcie Taylor. "Steve Rock understands the unique ethos of AU, will recruit effectively to the institutional mission and mentor the student-athletes rigorously on the field and in the classroom. Coach Rock possesses the leadership qualities and knowledge necessary to elevate the competitiveness of the Raven football program.
During his first season at FC, Rock helped kicker Machy Magdalinos earn Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference Special Team Player of the Year. He would also lead punter Michael Parks to third-team All-American honors following the 2012 campaign. In 2013, Mike Wood and Parks each received All-HCAC accolades. Parks received first-team Capital One Academic All-American honors as selected by the College Sports Information Directors of America following the 2013 season.
On defense, linebacker Keaton Lyons was named the HCAC Freshman of the Year in 2012. A total of 20 linebackers have earned all-conference honors since 2007.
"I am grateful to so many who were instrumental in making my dream a reality. First, my personal Lord and Savior Jesus Christ whom without Him I am nothing; next, President Pistole and athletic director Marcie Taylor, as well as the many AU faculty and staff members who took time from their busy schedules to educate me on this fine institution; and to the Franklin College family (especially Coach Mike Leonard and Coach Kerry Prather) for providing a wonderful experience over the past 11 years to prepare me for this endeavor. Finally, I want to thank my family plus the many coaches I played under, as well as, coached alongside throughout my career.
"Anderson University parents, alumni, and fans can expect to see a team that plays the game of football with an "all-out" effort, enthusiasm, and sportsmanship as we incrementally strive to get better each day on the field, in the classroom, and serving the community."