Football Head Coach Bob Nielson Resigns

National search for a replacement to begin immediately

MACOMB, Ill. – Western Illinois Athletics announced the resignation of Bob Nielson as head coach of the Leatherneck Football program on Monday (Dec. 14). Nielson, who recently completed his third year at Western, posted a 16-21 record during his tenure.

"Thanks to Coach Nielson for his three years of service to the University; he certainly helped move the program forward. Although we just recently completed our season in the FCS Playoffs, there is already great excitement in looking ahead to next year," said interim athletic director Matt Tanney. "There are many positives around the football program, including the return of a talented, young nucleus of student-athletes and a majority of returners on both sides of the ball. I intend to move quickly to find the right person to lead our football program at a championship level."

The Leathernecks faced eight nationally-ranked programs for the second consecutive year, while playing the nation's toughest schedule this fall. A 6-5 regular season (7-6 overall), with three 'Top 25' wins, helped Western earn an at-large berth for the FCS Playoffs. Western won on the road at Dayton before falling at second-seed Illinois State.

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