Gustavus Adolphus College Head Football Coach Jay Schoenebeck has announced that the 2008 season will be his final season as head coach. After 29 years coaching college football, Schoenebeck has decided it is time to step away from the demands of being a head collegiate coach so he can dedicate more time to his family, which includes his wife Darcey, and their five-month old daughter Eryn. A 1980 Gustavus graduate, Schoenebeck has compiled an overall mark of 68-72 since returning to his alma mater as the head coach for the 1994 season.
Schoenebeck stated, “Anyone that knows me, is aware that family is the driving force in my life. For the past 14 years, Gustavus Adolphus College and those involved with the football program have been my family, however now it is time to step back and dedicate the majority of my life to my immediate family. This has been a difficult decision, however I am confident that this is the right decision at this time for me, Darcey, and Eryn.”
Gustavus Athletics Director Al Molde respects the reasons for Schoenebeck’s decision and stated, “Jay Schoenebeck has been our successful coach and wonderful colleague for the past 15 years. We will miss him. He is a man of strong character and great personal and professional integrity. A loyal Gustie, Jay has made valuable contributions to all aspects of life on campus, and is well known for his positive and cooperative attitude. Most importantly, he is loved and respected by the hundreds of football student athletes who call him “coach”. We wish him the very best in the future.”
Regarding Jay’s replacement, Molde stated, “It is our intention to find the very best head coach available and have that person named in time for the recruiting season.”
The Gustavus football team will open its 2008 season on September 13 against Coe College in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.