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| Benedictine athletics photo |
Benedictine defensive coordinator Jim Schroeder has been named head coach at Rockford.
Schroeder has served as defensive coordinator at Benedictine since 2005 and added the title of recruiting coordinator following the 2007 season. In 2013, Schroeder received the Bob Conwell Award, given to an assistant coach who demonstrates leadership, strength and commitment.
"I am extremely proud of all we have accomplished during my time at Benedictine," Schroeder said. "I will cherish the relationships I've been fortunate to build with so many great people."
The defense earned numerous accolades and national rankings while churning out consistent all-conference performers under Schroeder. The 2014 defense finished 15th nationally in total defense, surrendering just 268.2 yards per game. Benedictine also ranked 12th in fewest passing yards allowed. Jarrett Lecas earned the Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference Defensive Player of the Year, one season after earning Freshman of the Year. Lecas was among eight defensive players to receive all-conference recognition this year.
"Jim was an integral part in building the success we have had at Benedictine," Benedictine coach Jon Cooper said. "He has been here with me since the beginning 10 years ago and has experienced the highs and lows of building this program. He has certainly earned this opportunity and now has the chance to create a program of his own."
The defense posted its highest ranking in 2012, ranking 11th nationally in total defense. The team also finished 26th in 2009 and 14th in 2007. Against the pass, BenU's defense ranked 10th nationally in 2012 and 4th in pass efficiency defense following the 2007 season. The defense led the Northern Athletics Conference in points allowed per game in 2010. In addition to Lecas, Schroeder coached the conference defensive player of the year in 2012 season and the co-player of the year in 2011 (Ben Lockton in both seasons).
"On behalf of the Benedictine University community, I'd like to congratulate Jim on this opportunity and wish him the best in his new endeavor," athletic director Mark McHorney said. "Jim was instrumental in helping turn our program into a consistent contender and I thank him for outstanding dedication to our student-athletes over the last 10 seasons."
Benedictine has represented the Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference in the NCAA Division III playoffs three times in the last five years.