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Regardless He envisioned his team upsetting a cent graduation rate during 1999-2004, of today’s national program before a sellout according to a national survey. t e c h n o - Huskie Stadium crowd on national The success has also elevated Novak d r i v e n , television. into two MAC Top 20 victory lists. Cur- s p e e d The Cinderella 2003 campaign plus rently, the 11th-year Northern Illinois of light, postseason appearances in 2004 and grid boss is 11th in league wins (41) and c y b e r - 2005 are reality TV at its Huskie fin- tied for 14th on the all-time (53) list. s p a c e d est. All of which is light years from the pace, it’s Suddenly, Northern Illinois’ marquee dismal three-digit national rankings the old- value has soared regionally and nation- when Novak’s reconstruction project s c h o o l ally with 28 television appearances in began in 1996. principles just the past three seasons. The revitalization of the Northern o f p a - For the second straight year, North- Illinois program has certainly turned Joe Novak t i e n c e , ern Illinois’ season-opening road effort heads on a regional and national ba- l o y a l t y, will air on ABC. The Huskies’ made sis. It began somewhat quietly as the

C H A M P I O N S work ethic, respect, and integrity which their 2005 debut at the University of Huskies posted notable wins over Wake have made Northern Illinois University Michigan’s “Big House” while 2006 Forest University and Green head football coach Joe Novak a 21st starts at State University’s famed State Univesity before landing among century success. “Horseshoe.” For the second consecu- the nation’s Top 40 in November, 2002. His unassuming personality and per- tive season, a minimum of nine NIU It marked the first time NIU received severance are stamped all over a Huskie contests will be televised. votes in the major-college polls since program that has steadily ascended into A pair of MAC West Division show- 1989. the nation’s Top 30 from the depths downs in 2006 will bring Northern The reconstruction took on a mete- of the major-college ranks. Whether Illinois’ appearances on the ESPN net- oric rise in 2003. That Cinderella cam- 0-11 or 10-2, the Novak demeanor and works (ESPN, ESPN2, ESPN Classic or paign saw the Huskies top three Bowl method never changed. Through feast ESPNU) to a total of 10. Championship Series opponents— the or famine, the 61-year-old has been the Novak’s program seeks its seventh University of Maryland, University of epitome of patience and vision. straight winning season after last year’s Alabama and Iowa State University— Those attributes have produced an success became the program’s longest and win their first seven games. unprecedented six consecutive winning 1-A string of success and the longest In DeKalb, it was Mardi Gras, New seasons for the Huskies, as well as a since a five-year stretch during 1962- Year’s Eve, and Fourth of July, all in share of the Mid-American Conference 66 in the Huskies’ College Division one. By mid-October, the unheralded West Division title for the fourth time heyday. Huskies ranked No. 10 in the initial within the last five years. In addition In the past three campaigns, over BCS standings, No. 12 in the Associ- to a stellar 26-10 ledger for the past a half million (536,881) fans have ated Press poll, and No. 14 in the ESPN three years, Northern Illinois played packed Huskie Stadium for a 23-home / USA Today version. Novak’s team set in the 2005 MAC Championship Game game average of 23,343. In 2004, NIU a school record with 10 regular-season as a postseason encore to 2004 when led the Mid-Am in home attendance victories. NIU capped off that year with a 34-21 with a school single-season record of At the conclusion of that season-

2001 2002triumph 2004 2005 over Troy University in the 27,052 per-game average. That year, opening surprise sprung on the Ter- Silicon Valley Football Classic. Novak tutored a league-high 12 All- rapins, there was a rare moment of That marked Northern Illinois’ first MAC players, 10 Mid-Am Players of the emotion from Novak. postseason bowl appearance in 21 Week, eight senior National Football For those witnessing Novak raise years since the 1983 California Bowl League free agents, and five MAC All- his arms in exultation, it was a display III triumph. It was back then, as as- Academic performers. that also served as the celebration, sistant to NIU Hall of Fame coach Bill Under his tutelage, NIU has won 38 realization, and culmination of eight Mallory, that Novak first envisioned of its last 53 games (a .716 winning rebuilding years. Due to that dramatic what Huskie football could be. Novak percentage), 28 of the last 35 at home turnaround, Novak’s contract was ex- completely understood the situation, (.800 ), and 26 of its last 32 in the highly tended from April 2004 through the

M AC W E S T its uniqueness, its potential, its loca- competitive Mid-Am (.813). His Huskie 2007 season. tion, etc. teams have crashed the national wire Not only was the nation asking That’s why he sought the job twice, services’ Top 30 the last three years about All-America tailback Michael finally getting his opportunity in De- and Novak’s tenure includes a pair of “The Burner” Turner, but—more im- cember, 1995. In the duration, Novak seven-game win streaks. portantly—were these Huskies for real dreamed of the day when he would In the classroom, Northern Illinois and just exactly who is this Novak fel- guide the Huskies back to a bowl. made the Top 25, too, with a 71.4 per- low? Late in his coaching life, Novak

26 Coaching Staff www.niuhuskies.com M AC W E S T 2001 2002 2004 2005 C H A M P I O N S - - - - - Chicago Tri were many, it was Novak’s integrity and insistence on staying Plan, withbuilding the program with high The school talent and avoiding the temp bune referred to Novak’s persistence as “dogged resolve.” Since being elevated to major-col in the Novak regime. Win or lose, Novak maintained the cool, calm of behavior. many hid one-liners funny and His smile engaging those Enduring frustrations. early the early Northern Illinois years tested his not but degree, ultimate the to resolve to the His point term. of long compromise.the stressed Novakstaff his and program would win the right way. respect 40 Top to bottom rock From ability. ability. That was the plan all along. sign a placed Novak ago, years Eleven on the wall in locker his room. team’s The placard read: “Those Who Stay promise a was It Champions.” Be Will that if the players worked and over tation for the “quick fix.” In a major feature story in 2002, the came the many obstaclesthe reconstruction period that a MAC through championship ring would eventually follow. great some made we’ve “Obviously, football this “But said. Novak strides,” team has some unfinished business. lege status in 1969, the Huskies have produced 13 winning campaigns—six Coaching Staff 27 - - - - OVAK N

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C EAD (Stephen in 1998 and QB Josh Haldi in Haldi Josh QB and 1998 in (Stephen tional Collegiate Athletic Association back-to-back won history, 1-A Division loop rushing titles, plus finished run under Novak. While the visible accomplishments awards. The 2004 turnstile (27,052 for record five average home games) erased the previous hallmark (23,575 set for seven dates in 2003). Northern Illi 2004). Mid- the led Illinois Northern 2003, In Am with two postseason All-America selections—Turner and placekickerSteve Azar, 10 all-league performers, picks. Week the of Player MAC 16 and The year before, troops Novak’s were loop pacesetters in All-America types (Turner and punt returner Dan Shel nois now boasts 17 20,000-plus home crowds over the last The fourbest-ever seasons.home-opening crowd of 28,071 for the 23-22 2004 the victoryin University Illinois overSouthern DeKalb debut accounts for the latest of Huskie Stadium’s four sellouts—all don), All-MAC picks (11), and Mid-Am Mid-Am and (11), picks All-MAC don), now Turner, (12). Week the of Players Na in rusher career all-time 15 No. the ner-up for the Smith Vern Award and MAC Offensive Huskies Player the of the addition, Year In in 2003. and 2002 Mid- five last the of four claimed have Am Special Teams Player of the Year H - - - - - www.niuhuskies.com two National Football Foundation na Foundation Football National two 2000-01, and P.J. Fleck in 2003), plus in 1996-98, TB in America players (SS-FS Patrick Stephen Patrick (SS-FS players America coached three CoSIDA Academic All- and WR Sam Hurd in 2005). He’s also 2003, TB Garrett Wolfe in 2004, 2005 2002, 2004, TB Michael Turner in 2002, in Turner Michael TB 2004, 2002, in 2001, 2003, WR-PR Dan Sheldon in Justin McCareins in 2000, PK Steve Azar Azar Steve PK 2000, in McCareins Justin selections (OT Ryan Diem in 2000, FLK 2000, in Diem Ryan (OT selections Illinois can boast of seven All-America All-America seven of boast can Illinois Under Novak’s tutelage, Northern the same time.” such a prestigious award,” the North “It’s really “It’s great to be recognized for everyone for the AFCA Region 3 honor. honor. 3 Region AFCA the for everyone credited Novak response, typical a In coaches to receive at least one vote. Coaches Associa In 2003, Novak was named the Bowl. the American Football Coaches Asso 2005, he was selected to In January, has finally begun to be recognized for recognized be to begun finally has acumen. and recruiting his sideline tional Scholar-Athlete Award recipients recipients Award Scholar-Athlete tional loting for 2003, Novak was one of nine nine of one was Novak 2003, for loting honor. It’s humbling and flattering at flattering and humbling It’s honor. your coaching peers, is certainly a great great a certainly is peers, coaching your we have. And then, to be selected by hard-working student-athletes that loyal coaching staff and the great, have happened without a dedicated, it’s a team, a staff reward. It wouldn’t wouldn’t It reward. staff a team, a it’s Not trying to sound corny here, but staff, our players, and our program. It’s an It’s honor for me on behalf of our ern Illinois bossman said. “I’m thrilled. thrilled. “I’m said. bossman Illinois ern the AP National Coach of the Year bal Year the of Coach National AP the National Coach of the Year Award. In Award. Year the of Coach National a viable candidate for the Bobby Dodd Dodd Bobby the for candidate viable a independents. By mid-season, he was he mid-season, By independents. Conference USA, the MAC, and major encompassed the , Conference, Ten Big the encompassed the Year in a geographical area that back on the sideline for the 2005 Hula Hula 2005 the for sideline the on back tion Region 3 Division 1-A Coach of Classic) in December of 2003 and was in a national all-star game (Blue-Gray of his career, Novak finally coached year 35th the until took it Although Awards Dinner in Chicago. Awards Meyer Coach Award at the 2005 Giant Giant 2005 the at Award Coach Meyer was the recipient of the prestigious Ray Ray prestigious the of recipient the was ciation Board of Trustees. In June, he HEAD COACH JOE NOVAK

Sharing the West Division title is not in eight different Top 20 NCAA stats. In One of Novak’s long-time trademarks our goal. From the start, our goal was 2002, it was seven NIU representatives has been maintaining strong relation- to beat a Western Michigan or a Toledo in 24 Top 20 spots—including Sheldon, ships with high school coaches. To and win the MAC championship. That’s the national punt return kingpin, and that end, a survey of 41 Chicago area what we’re here to do.” Turner, the national 1-A runner-up in high school coaches in Gridiron Report During the last four football seasons, rushing and all-purpose yardage. Gar- named Novak as their favorite colle- only three Mid-Am programs—the rett Wolfe is, of course, the nation’s giate head man in 2001. “(Joe) Novak University of Toledo (37-12), Marshall No. 1 returning rusher for 2006 and is extremely well perceived by high University (38-13), and Miami (OH) the latest in the Huskies’ seven-year school coaches,” said Joe Henricksen, University (35-16)—have produced consecutive streak of 1,000-yard rush- editor and publisher of the Gridiron better overall records than Northern ers. Report. “He’s made an extreme effort Illinois (30-16). Six games into the Along the way, the program’s talent to get out and know the coaches in the 2000 schedule, the Huskies soared to level drastically improved. Novak’s last Chicago area.” the No. 31 spot in the Sagarin National nine National Letter of Intent classes While all these testimonials, records, Ratings. In 2001, Novak’s com- and statistics may seem light years

C H A M P I O N S petitive Northern Illinois club did from the situation that Novak, his everything but beat Big Ten Con- staff, and Huskie players suffered ference co-champion and Sugar through the first three years (1- Bowl-bound University of Illinois 10, 0-11, and 2-9 seasons, includ- before dropping a 17-12 deci- ing the infamous 23-game losing sion in Champaign. In 2002, the streak), it’s not the ultimate des- Huskies outplayed and outgained tination. All along, the Northern Alamo Bowl rep University of Wis- Illinois goal has been to win the consin and lost in the final 1:21, MAC. 24-21. In 2003, Toledo prevailed, Novak and his staff continue 33-30, and knocked the hosts out to concentrate on local prep tal- of the Mid-Am title game by scor- ent. Of his last 207 recruits, 115 ing the winning points with 41 came from Illinois, and 96 from seconds left. In 2004, Maryland the Chicagoland area. There’s no gained the slimmest margin of question. In Novak, Northern Il- revenge in 23-20 thriller. After linois not only found the right fit, throwing a scare in Michigan for it went for the mutual fit. Intro- the two school’s 2005 opener, duced as the school’s 19th gridiron survived taskmaster at a jam-packed De- NIU’s upset bid (38-37) when the cember 22, 1995, press conference Huskies failed on a two-point at NIU’s Holmes Student Center, he conversion in the closing seconds literally became the blast from the of overtime. Perhaps most haunt- Huskie past. ing, was that just 10 seconds and Novak radiated family and suc-

2001 2002one 2004 play 2005 enabled the University cess as a former Northern Illinois of Akron to claim the 2005 MAC assistant, a product of the famed Championship from Northern Il- “Cradle of Coaches,” and as an ef- linois in a 31-30 heart-breaker. have rated among the league’s elite. fective practitioner in the tradition-rich Of NIU’s 26 setbacks in the last six His 1997 group—featuring National Big Ten Conference. The new top dog years, 19 of those came against bowl- Football League draft choices Ryan was a natural. eligible competition. Diem (Indianapolis Colts) and Justin His business-like press conference Team-wise, Novak’s teams have man- McCareins (Tennessee Titans)—ranked turned into a holiday atmosphere, a ufactured national statistics by the car- No. 49 in the country. Novak’s 2004 Welcome Back reunion, and a Back to load. In 2002, Northern Illinois finished and 2005 incoming classes were ranked the Future sequel. Many Huskie well-

M AC W E S T among the Top 20 NCAA major-college No. 1 in the MAC by national recruit- wishers lined up to congratulate Novak leaders in at least seven Division 1-A ing guru Tom Lemming while the 2002 and his wife Carole on their return to categories as the Huskies wound up and 2003 groups were second-best in DeKalb. No. 6 in NCAA punt returns, No. 12 in the league. During the last six years, “We’re extremely pleased to have rushing, No. 18 in turnover margin, and 56 Huskie performers have earned Joe Novak as our new head football No. 19 in total offense. In 2003, four All-MAC status from the league’s coach and to be able to draw from our Northern Illinois performers appeared coaches. own athletic tradition to enhance our

28 Coaching Staff www.niuhuskies.com M AC W E S T 2001 2002 2004 2005 C H A M P I O N S - Novak received a bachelor of science science of bachelor a received Novak boss at Warren (OH) Western Reserve Western (OH) Warren at boss High School led in Novak later, 1968. years five coach Elevated head to Western Reserve to a 12-0-0 record, division school large first Ohio’s took state title, and earned Coach of the his later, year A 1972. in honors Year Western Reserve squad went 11-1-0 top His finals. state the reached and WRHS player the was Ross Browner, Trophy Outland the of recipient 1976 three grandchildren. at the . In 1999, Novak was inducted into the Mentor High School Sports Hall of Fame. For the fifth straight year, he’ll be a voter on the 60-member / USA ESPN Today Board of Coaches 25 Poll. Top in education degree in 1967 and a administration education in master’s in 1968—both from Miami. He Hinkel Carole former the to married is OH. The couple of has Mentor, two grown sons, David and and Jeremy, Championship Championship Game and owns a 6-4 record in 10 bowl appearances. record in MU Crum, MAC under two years two captured first his games, In 23 of 21 won and (1974) Georgia defeated and titles, (1975) Carolina South of University the in the Tangerine Bowl. In that span, giant-killer Miami also defeated the 1974) in (14-10 Kentucky of University (14-3 in 1975). and topped Purdue In four Northern linebackers Illinois and coordinator seasons defensive as se draft NFL four tutored Novak boss, lections in defensive tackle Scott Kellar, Kellar, Scott tackle defensive in lections defensive tackle Steve nose O’Malley, guard Doug Bartlett, and linebacker . alignment Fifty-Two Novak’s 1982, In notched the allowed Huskies’ weeks, first shutout three in in years—two two and 1964, since (136) points fewest the yielded the least first downs (171) in 10 years. During The Championship Season, the host Huskie “D” limited put together and shutout 17-0 classic the Miami to 134 yards total offense. A three-sport letterman at (OH) Mentor High School, ends defensive Novak as career began coaching prep his Coaching Staff 29 - - - OVAK N OE

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EAD tant for Schembechler (1967), Dick Crum Crum Dick (1967), Schembechler for tant and Illinois, at Moeller Gary Miami, at involved been has he Overall, Mallory. 1974, 1966, (1965, titles Mid-Am five in 1975, and 1983), four division crowns MAC one 2005), and 2004 2002, (2001, season all-star game. linked been has collegiate Novak in start, minds the finest From the of some to football. defensive at seasons two lettered He end on back-to-back MAC champion since 1945. The de scoring 1-A Hoosiers’NCAA in 7 No. finished Four-Three scheme ponents—Toledo (12-0), Northwestern Northwestern (12-0), ponents—Toledo (24-0), and Michigan State University season one in time first the (10-0)—for fense (13.8 points-per-game yield) and yield) points-per-game (13.8 fense (303.3 defense total in nationally 10th ypg.) that autumn. Between 1984-94, All-Big IU Ten produced six First-Team selections on defense, side that six on picks First-Team Academic Ten All-Big players defensive seven and ball, the of post- one least at for picked were who ships (7-3 in 1965 and 9-1 in 1966) During at Schembechler. Bo under assis Miami grad a as worked Novak career, his H ------www.niuhuskies.com 119-year football history—65 Hoo you have to sell is the education the education the is sell to have you most successful period in Indiana’s to sell the university. The first thing first The university. the sell to the of part integral an was Novak Peoria and in Champaign. You have You Champaign. in and Peoria young men are going to get.” Illinois, Rockford, and down into to get back into Chicago, northern “I know how important it is for NIU NIU for is it important how know “I region. Novak returned to the Huskie pro 83). a five-year contract with Northern Il Sadler. Sadler. Novak, who originally signed The Cleveland, OH, product repre (1984-95), Novak succeeded Charlie football post in 1985. (1977-79), NIU (1980-83), and Indiana level at Miami (OH) (1974-76), Illinois And best of all, Joe really wants to be assistant at the NCAA Division 1-A recruited in Illinois the last 17 years. full-time a as seasons 22 of veteran A the Mid-American Conference. He’s here.” importance importance of academics. He knows the right fit for us. He knows the athletics director Cary Groth. “He’s future,” said former Northern Illinois finished 30th in the final 1983 As 20-13, in the California Bowl, and beat Cal State University-Fullerton, 10-2 squad that won the Mid-Am title, Mid-Am the won that squad 10-2 Mallory on the school’s Hall of Fame politi (1971-75), and (1980- Mallory Bill and (1971-75), politi under coach linebackers and ordinator Richard “Doc” Urich (1969-70), Jerry Ip Jerry (1969-70), Urich “Doc” Richard as head football coach here—joining celebrated “Cradle of Coaches” to serve serve to Coaches” of “Cradle celebrated linois, was also a finalist for the Huskie the for finalist a also was linois, sents the fourth member of Miami’s co defensive as served he where gram appearances in 12 years with Mal seasons, and six post-season bowl In 1993, his Indiana defense pro campaign, blanking a trio of op sier triumphs, seven winning regular regular winning seven triumphs, sier lory. 8-4 an during shutouts three duced thought of recruiting the Midwest one-liners, Novak also relishes the Os, plus for those David Letterman work ethic, for his innovative Xs and Xs innovative his for ethic, work Known as a disciplinarian, for his sociated Press major-college poll. sociated Press major-college THE QUOTABLE JOE NOVAK

The Opening Monologue (1995): Playing Alabama (2003): Going Bowling (2004): “We play Penn State? We play Penn State? “We’re a MAC team and our budget is one- “I certainly think we are bowl worthy. We’ll go That part was whited out on the schedule I twentieth of what theirs is. Their coach (Mike anywhere, Saginaw, MI, if we have to.” was given. I want to renegotiate.” Shula) is an NFL coach. I’ve never been to an NFL game.” Book it (2004): Hands-on Coaching (in reference to Northern “We take pride in our academics. This is what Illinois WR Deon Mitchell) (1996): Motivation: The Sequel (2004): school is about. And it’s no coincidence that “We have to get him the ball if I have to hand “We’ve still got that carrot (MAC title) to put in some of our better players are pretty sharp it to him myself.” front of the guys coming back. It’s always nice guys in the classroom, too.” to have a carrot in front of them.” Needs (2001): “We needed a win. I don’t care if was against The Novak Files the or DeKalb High School. It was a great win.” League, Year School W-L-T Finish Highlights Responsibilities Geography Lesson (2002): 1974 Miami (OH) 10-0-1 MAC, 1st � Tangerine Bowl Def. Coord. / LB “Here at Northern, we don’t run the West Coast Beat Georgia, 21-0 Offense. We run the East Coast Offense. We’re 1975 Miami (OH) 11-1-0 MAC, 1st � Tangerine Bowl Def. Coord. / LB C H A M P I O N S more of a running team.” Beat South Carolina, 20-7 1976 Miami (OH) 3-8-0 MAC, 7th Def. Coord. / LB Miami (OH) 24-9-1 Two Titles Two Bowl Appearances The Mathematician (2002): 1977 Illinois 3-8-0 Big Ten, Tie 8th Defensive Line “We told our kids this week if Kent State got 1978 Illinois 1-8-2 Big Ten, 9th Defensive Line three (points), we had to get four.” 1979 Illinois 2-8-1 Big Ten, 9th Defensive Line Illinois 6-24-3 The Coaching Profession Couch (2002): 1980 Northern Illinois 7-4-0 MAC, Tie 3rd Beat MAC Champ Def. Coord. / LB “Every week coaches come in on Monday and Central Michigan, 21-0 find reasons to worry.” 1981 Northern Illinois 3-8-0 MAC, 9th Def. Coord. / LB 1982 Northern Illinois 5-5-0 MAC, Tie 5th Won last three games Def. Coord. / LB Speaking His Mind (after controversial loss to 1983 Northern Illinois 10-2-0 MAC, 1st � California Bowl III Def. Coord. / LB No. 22 Wisconsin (2002): Beat Cal-Fullerton, 20-13 “We’re not in the Big Ten, can I get fined for Northern Illinois 25-19-0 One Title One Bowl Appearance talking about officials? I’m not going to be- 1984 Indiana 0-11-0 Big Ten, 10th Def. Coord. / LB cause we don’t do that. And I don’t know. I 1985 Indiana 4-7-0 Big Ten, 9th Def. Coord. / LB 1986 Indiana 6-6-0 Big Ten, 6th � All-America Bowl Def. Coord. / LB don’t criticize officials because frankly, they’re Lost to Florida State, 27-13 closer than I am. But, boy, there was some aw- 1987 Indiana 8-4-0 Big Ten, 2nd � Peach Bowl Def. Coord. / LB fully bad timing on some of those penalties.” Lost to Tennessee, 27-22 1988 Indiana 8-3-1 Big Ten, 5th � Def. Coord. / LB Game Week Motivation (2002): Beat South Carolina, 34-10 “It’s my week to work at being the bad guy. 1989 Indiana 5-6-0 Big Ten, 6th Def. Coord. / LB This is the week I take my mean pills.” 1990 Indiana 6-5-1 Big Ten, 7th � Peach Bowl Def. Coord. / LB Lost to Auburn, 27-23 This Old (Dog) House (on taking the Northern 1991 Indiana 7-4-1 Big Ten, Tie 3rd � Copper Bowl Def. Coord. / LB Illinois job in 1995) (2003): Beat Baylor, 24-0 “What I saw was a beautiful piece of property 1992 Indiana 5-6-0 Big Ten, Tie 6th Def. Coord. / LB overlooking the ocean with a rickety old barn. 1993 Indiana 8-4-0 Big Ten, Tie 4th � Independence Bowl Def. Coord. / LB Lost to Virgina Tech, 25-20

2001 2002You 2004 look 2005 past the barn. You tear it down and 1994 Indiana 6-5-0 Big Ten, Tie 8th Def. Coord. / LB build whatever you want.” 1995 Indiana 2-9-0 Big Ten, 11th Def. Coord. / LB Indiana 65-70-3 Six Bowl Appearances The Taste of DeKalb (on Turner the Burner hot 1996 Northern Illinois 1-10-0 Independent Head Coach sauce) (2003): 1997 Northern Illinois 0-11-0 MAC West, 6th Head Coach “I’m afraid to try it. I think our sports infor- 1998 Northern Illinois 2-9-0 MAC West, 5th Head Coach mation director Mike Korcek makes it in his 1999 Northern Illinois 5-6-0 MAC West, Tie 2nd Head Coach basement.” 2000 Northern Illinois 6-5-0 MAC West, Tie 3rd Head Coach 2001 Northern Illinois 6-5-0 MAC West, Tie 1st Head Coach Bowl Logic (2003): 2002 Northern Illinois 8-4-0 MAC West, Tie 1st MAC Coach of the Year Head Coach “If we take care of business this week, we can 2003 Northern Illinois 10-2-0 MAC West, Tie 2nd AFCA Region 3 Coach of Year Head Coach have 10 regular-season wins here. To me, that’s 2004 Northern Illinois 9-3-0 MAC West, Tie 1st � Silicon Valley Classic Head Coach Beat Troy, 34-21 M AC W E S T pretty darned good—at any school. I think we deserve consideration for a . A 2005 Northern Illinois 7-5-0 MAC West, Tie 1st MAC Championship Game Head Coach NIU 54-60-0 Four Titles One Bowl Appearance month ago, were we a BCS team? No. With 28 bowls, are we one of the best 56 teams in the 32 Seasons 174-182-7 Seven Titles � 10 Bowl Appearances (6-4-0) country? Yes. I guarantee you we are.”

30 Coaching Staff www.niuhuskies.com M AC W E S T 2001 2002 2004 2005 C H A M P I O N S GA Off. Line Off. Line Off. Line Off. Line Off. Line Off. Line Off. Line Off. OTs / TEs / OTs Head Coach Quarterbacks Off Coord.-QB Off Coord.-QB Off Coord.-QB Running Backs Running Backs QB-Passing Coord. QB-Passing Responsibilities The Bond Files The Pittman Files Years Years 1985 1986-90 School 1991 1991-93 Missouri St. Arkansas 1994-95 Responsibilities 1996-99 UTEP UNLV 2000-03 Delta St. 2004-06 Illinois St. Army NIU Fame. He in receivedphysical of educationWilder a Jennifer former frombachelor the to Arkansas married is ofBond in 1985.science daughters, two has degree couple The IL. Bloomington, Mackenzie Rae, 4, and Mallory Grace, 2. Holtz (1981), suffered a 7-4-1 the on career-endingcoach student a as served then 10- and injury, the on aide grad and unit (1984) Bowl Liberty 2-0 Holiday Bowl (1985) elevens for Hatfield. and (3) football in lettering man, two-sport he As a a was prep senior, at a Rogers as (AR) High quarterback School, Bond All-State An (2). track who Bond, “Blackie” Gary father, his for played the into enshrined was and years 32 for coached high state’s school federation Hall of Fame. In 2003, Bond was inducted into the RHS Hall of two postseason games at DE First-Team won he (1980-83).Polen, Bruce coach for senior As a NAIA All-Central All-America, States First-Team Intercollegiate Conference, team captain Pittman 1982, In and team. 6-4 a on honors co-MVP made First-Team into All-CSICinducted was he and1998, In team year. 7-2 defensive a in MVP in and Fame, of Hall Athletics State Pittsburg the All-Century school’s the onto voted was he 2004 squad. football letters won Pittman School, High a (OK) As (4). track and Grove (3), state At (4), 10-1 football a in on gridder All-State an was he senior, playoff semifinalist and won the state Class 3A toss. 3/4 52-7 a school-record with title put shot in degree science of bachelor a received the Pittman to married is He 1986. in PSU from education KS. Pittsburg, of Conrad Jamie former Coaching Staff 31 1992-93 1994-95 1996 Hutchinson CC NIU 1999 2000 Cincinnati 2001 2003 Michigan Western 2004-06 Missouri Kansas NIU NIU Line Head Coach/Off. Asst. Years Years 1991 School Hutchinson CC 1997-98 Oklahoma - - - OACHES C SSISTANT A Conference performers — OT Jake VerStraete, C C VerStraete, Jake OT — performers Conference OT Free, Doug Acker, C Van Brian Ghilani, Todd Lueck. Ben OG and Charlie under (1994-95) tenure NIU first his In Pittman produced a Sadler, trio of All-Big West Conference talent. Thanks to Pittman O-lines, Northern Illinois has ranked 20 in amongNCAA Division I-A team the rushing for topfour standing 16 No. year’s last including campaigns, ypg.) (206.7 Prior to coach his at return, the Pittman served University as OT-TE of Cincinnati University the at boss O-line plus (1996), Minter for Rick Western (1997-98), Blake John for Oklahoma of the (1999), Darnell Gary for University Michigan and (2000), Smith Larry for Missouri of University (2001). Allen Terry for Kansas of University the Before as NIU,head coach he at producedHutchinson (KS) an Community 11-9-1 1992-93. during College He made the full-time record jump into the college ranks as O-line coach at school’s the earned team 1993 His 1991. in HCC Sun the of Valley the at years 23 in bid bowl first Phoenix. in Bowl Pittman began his an at career as as a Pittsburg School student coach High (KS) (OK) State Beggs to University moved in He 1984 1985. and (MO) as School High (MO) Princeton 1986, Trenton in assistant and 1987-89, in coach football head 1990. in coach football head as School High At finished PSU, with Pittman 35 straight won starts, and four played football in letters, way Conference champs and 1-AA playoff entries entries playoff 1-AA and champs Conference way (1989-90). A former Razorback QB, Bond was a member of the 8-4-0 Gator Bowl team under sistant Coach Award by the All-America Football Football All-America the by Award Coach sistant Foundation. Gate At Southwest back-to-back Missouri on State, backs he running the tutored tor and quarterback coach at Army (2000-2003), (2000-2003), Army at coach quarterback and tor the same dual capacity he held at Illinois State University (1996-99). In between, Bond served as running backs coach under Jesse Branch at Southwest Missouri Strong Jim State for University capacity (1986-90), same the in months three at the University of Nevada-Las Vegas (1991), QB passing coachplus boss QB for and David(1991-93), Paso Lee Texas-El at the UniversityState (MS) Delta at Knight of Todd for coordinator receivers boss Marquis Mosely (1997). At system Westthat set 35 Point,school records. BondIn 2003, he installedAs Top Campbell Mike the of recipient the was a One-Back Bond arrived in DeKalb final from Army four after seasons the of an eight-year partnership coordina offensive the was He Berry. Todd with University (1994-95). tied or set attack Redbird high-octane Bond’s 50 school or conference records in three years won as offensive coordinator. Illinois and State reached (1998-99) twice playoffs 1-AA NCAA the In (1999). title Conference Athletic Gateway the Football American the for finalist a was he 1999, Year the of Coach Assistant Association Coaches Kevin QB All-America ISU coached Bond Award. NIU former and WR all-league and (1998) Glenn -

“pit “pit boss” has produced five All-Mid-American a a cornerstone to NIU’s success ever since. The DeKalb in March, 2003, and the O-line has been been has O-line the and 2003, March, in DeKalb staff in the spring of 2004. Pittman returned to to returned Pittman 2004. of spring the in staff head head coach when Joe Novak restructured his El Reno, OK, product was promoted to assistant assistant to promoted was product OK, Reno, El double as assistant head coach. The 44-year-old 44-year-old The coach. head as assistant double reasons he became the first-ever Huskie aide to aide Huskie first-ever the he became reasons strength is well-documented and just one of the the of one just and well-documented is strength His ability to turn a question mark into a it’s offensive line coach Sam Pittman. Sam coach line offensive it’s if there’s one person who can ease that concern, concern, that ease can who person one there’s if best offensive line for 2005 has graduated, but but graduated, has 2005 for line offensive best Three-fifths Three-fifths of the Mid-American Conference’s Assistant Head Coach / Offensive Line / Offensive Assistant Head Coach Sam Pittman www.niuhuskies.com (1985) under and Ken Hatfield at the coach (1983-84) and a year as a graduate assistant graduate a as year a and (1983-84) coach experience, starting with two years as a student The 44-year-old Bond boasts 23 seasons of 2004) and total offense yards (5,329 in 2005). 2004) and total offense University of Arkansas. (53 in 2004 and 52 in 2005), first downs (261 in his two seasons: points (421 in 2004), touchdowns touchdowns 2004), in (421 points seasons: two his one glance at the single-season school records set in in set records school single-season the at glance one The efficiency of the NIU is offense clear with One-Back attack. This Bond—as in Northern Illinois University of Offensive Coordinator / Quarterbacks Coordinator Offensive John Bond rank as agent 001 based on his success with the fensive coordinator John Bond—would have to ASSISTANT COACHES

Novak in 2003 as the Huskie linebacker boss and ondary, inside linebackers, and O-line during his then was promoted to the NIU defensive coordina- undergrad years. Not only did he coach against tor post in February, 2004. Last fall, the 50-year-old Northern Illinois—four times with WMU (1975- Doornbos’ Attack Four-Three defense ranked a 78), once with Kent State (1981), and once with respectable No. 2 in the MAC and No. 34 nationally Army (1992)—Doornbos notched three tackles as in scoring defense yielding just 22.8 points-per- a starting frosh roverback in a 30-13 win at Huskie game. Stadium in 1974. Doornbos brought 22 years of major-college ex- A four-sport letterman in football (3), basket- perience to the Huskie staff—including 14 at Army ball (3), (2), and track (1) at Jenison High under head coaches Jim Young (1986-90) and Bob School, Doornbos was an Honorable Mention Sutton (1991-99). He served as the Black Knights’ All-State LB-TE as a senior in 1973 when he made for 11 of those seasons. In 129 tackles and 21 catches for 301 yards plus three 1996, when Army went 10-1 and won a berth in the TDs. Independence Bowl opposite Auburn University, his He received a bachelor of science degree in in- platoon ranked No. 6 nationally in rushing defense dustrial education from WMU in 1978. Doornbos is (89.0 ypg. yield), No. 9 in 1-A total defense (256.3 married to the former Helen Sanford of Winchester, Denny Doornbos ypg.), and No. 18 in scoring defense (17.5 ppg.). MA. The couple has two children, sons Blaik, 15, Defensive Coordinator / Linebackers Earlier at West Point, Doornbos tutored the and Darik, 11.

C H A M P I O N S tight ends (1986-87) and defensive ends (1988-90). The Doornbos Files Defense is all about adjustments. For Northern During 1983-85, he was the defensive coordinator Illinois University, the last two seasons have hinged and inside linebackers coach under Bill Yung at the Years School Responsibilities on adjusting to the loss of All-Mid-American Con- University of Texas-El Paso. In 1982, Doornbos was ference talent like linebacker Brian Atkinson or end a grad assistant and worked with the ILBs under 1978-79 Illinois Def. Line Travis Moore after 2004, plus tackle Qunice Holman the legendary at the University 1980 Boston College Outside LBs and strong safety Ray Smith after 2005. of Michigan when the Wolverines won the Big Ten 1981 Kent State Def. Line / Special Teams Fortunately for coach Joe Novak, he can count on Conference title, went 8-4, and played UCLA in the 1982 Michigan (GA) Inside LBs the experience and savvy of long-time friend and Rose Bowl. He coached on the defensive side for 1983-85 UTEP Def. Coord. / Inside LBs veteran defensive coordinator Denny Doornbos. Ed Chlebek at both Boston College (1980) and Kent 1986-87 Army Tight Ends That partnership dates back to 1978-79 when State University (1981). 1988-89 Army Def. Ends Doornbos (pronounced DORN-boss) helped Novak His coaching career began at Western Michigan 1990-99 Army Def. Coord. / Def. Ends with the defensive line at the University of Illinois University after a career-ending injury. Doornbos 2003 NIU Linebackers during the era. He reunited with assisted WMU boss with the sec- 2004-06 NIU Def. Coord. / Linebackers

For 2006, Bower has the opportunity to A two-sport standout at Orangeville (IL) continue working with yet another all-league High School, Bower won letters in football (3) TE in Jake Nordin, who garnered Second-Team and basketball (2). As a senior, he was named All-MAC accolades from the loop’s coaches in team captain and defensive co-MVP, First-Team 2005. All-NWIC Conference at both offensive guard The 36-year-old Bower, who also doubles as and linebacker, and First-Team Freeport Jour- the team’s media relations liaison, boasted a nal-Standard All-Area on a 9-4 Class 1A state few local “ties” to the NIU program. He spent playoff semifinalist for coach Brian Benning seven years at his Loras College alma mater in 1988. In basketball, Bower started for the in Dubuque, IA, under the tutelage of head NWIC and regional champs that winter. coach Bob Bierie—the former offensive coor- Bower received a bachelor of arts degree dinator on ’s Northern Illinois in history in 1993 and a master of arts degree gridiron staff in 1978 and 1979. in physical education in 2001 from Loras.

2001 2002 2004 2005 During Bower’s Loras tenure (1993-99), the He is married to the former Liz Neumann of Duhawks posted five .500 or better seasons. Crystal Lake, IL. The couple has three children, Initially, he served as a grad aide and worked son Brett, 5, and daughters Faith, 3, and Greg Bower with the linebackers under defensive chief Grace, 1. Tight Ends Mike Hoskins in 1993-95. In 1996, Bower was elevated to full-time status as defensive Versatility and success are becoming trademarks coordinator and linebacker boss. of fifth-year Northern Illinois University assistant A year later, he switched to the secondary Greg Bower. and ran the ”D.” His Duhawk defense pro- He originally came to DeKalb in 2000 as a duced seven All-Iowa Intercollegiate Athletic graduate assistant helping with the secondary, Conference performers—headed by first-team- scout teams, and special teams. Two years later ers Tim Hansen (defensive back in 1996) and The Bower Files when Joe Novak had an opening for a D-line Mike Young (defensive line in 1997). Loras M AC W E S T boss, Bower stepped up to the challenge. ranked No. 28 in NCAA Division III turnover Years School Responsibilities When the Huskies needed a new tight ends margin (+1.10 per game) in 1997. 1993-95 Loras (GA) Linebackers boss in 2004, Bower rose to the occasion as evi- As a Duhawk player, Bower lettered four denced by star pupil Brad Cieslak, a First-Team 1996 Loras Def. Coord. / LBs All-Mid-American Conference selection who times (1989-92) for Bierie, plus started at 1997-99 Loras Def. Coord. / DBs was also the John Mackey National Tight End middle linebacker as a junior and a senior. He 2000-01 NIU (GA) Secondary of the Week following the win over Western collected 147 career tackles and anchored the 2002-03 NIU Def. Line Michigan University. IIAC’s No. 2 defense in both 1989 and 1990. 2004-06 NIU Tight Ends

32 Coaching Staff www.niuhuskies.com M AC W E S T 2001 2002 2004 2005 C H A M P I O N S - - (GA) Off. Line (GA) Off. Running Backs Wide Receivers Responsibilities The Cruz Files The Cruz The Hammock Files The Hammock and track (3). He served as team gridiron, the captain On in . and football both he started at fullback and linebacker, made League, Atlantic All-Cape Mention Honorable Game All-Star Shrine state’s the in played and as a senior in 1993. Cruz garnered All-State accolades wrestling in and both track in his final year at OHS. earned overall, 32-2 finished he mats, the On all-league honors, and captured Region and District titles en route to placing third in the (1993-94). class heavyweight the in meet state Valu Most team’s the voted was Cruz track, In Kyami, 3. able Weightman, threw the javelin a school record 213 feet and eight inches, NJSIAA won the “Champion Penn the of at second up Champions” wound All-State, made crown, Relays, and finished fifth in a national meet. Cruz received a bachelor of arts degree communication in from Rhode Island in 1998. He is married to the former Kori MacEachen of Standish, ME. The couple has a daughter, A College All-MAC selection, two-time Hammock also became the Huskie First-Team captain initial and program’s First-Team football NIU Sports Information Directors of America Aca demic All-America pick and First-Team Academic Academic First-Team and pick All-America demic As a soph, he wound repeater. up All-America points- (120.3 (10.7 scoring 1-A rushing Division NCAA in in 6 No. nationally 12 No. and per-game) ypg.), plus tied a league single-game with five rushing TDs record in a 52-35 victory at the Akron. of University As Indiana, a Athletic he Summit was prep the picked led at and the Fort Year Bishop Wayne the of Area Leurs Athlete High School scoring in and yards) (1,775 rushing in Conference All-Area First-Team a being with along TDs) (28 and First-Team Associated Press All-State pick squad. playoff 2A Class 7-5 a on of NIU bachelor a from with years graduated half Hammock a and three Academically, only in 2003). (December, marketing in degree science in Issues His Black by résumé honors also Sports-Scholar included Jr., Third-Team Ashe, Arthur the for runner-up and (2002) Education Higher Scholar-Athlete National Mount Anson Playboy single. is He (2001-02). Award Years Years 1998-99 School 1999-2000 2001-05 Rhode Island Rhode Island 2006 Responsibilities New Hampshire Student Coach (WRs) Student Coach (TEs) NIU Running Backs Years Years 2003 2004 School 2005-06 Wisconsin NIU Wisconsin (GA) Running Backs Coaching Staff 33 - - - OACHES C SSISTANT A

receivers during 1999-2000. four for boss In backs running the as served 2001, and Cruz moved to New Hampshire campaigns. His UNH tenure was highlighted by back-to-back Wildcat appearances in the Divi Association Athletics Collegiate National former NIU assistants such as , and Pat Narduzzi. , Dan Roushar, before (1995-97) fullback Cruz to moved originally and Keith played tailback (1994) for completing a four-year letterwinning career for the Rams. He played on URI’s 7-4-0 unit that captured the championship New in the Yankee England Conference as Divisiona sophomore. His sideline career began as a student coach with the Rhode Island tight ends in 1998-99. He then coached the Rams’ record in 2004 and 11-2 in 2005). Last fall, New won-lost (10-3 quarterfinals fall, playoff I-AA sion Last 2005). in 11-2 and 2004 in record Hampshire won the Atlantic 10 Conference first school’s the received title, Division North Network Sports the in ranking national 1 No. I-AA poll, and won the prestigious Lambert Cup — the symbol of football supremacy on tailback pupil, UNH top Cruz’s Coast. East the Stephan Lewis, was a First-Team The Sports Network Division I-AA finalist in 2002. Payton Award Walter All-America and a A native three-sport of star Newtonville, at NJ, Cruz Mays was Landing High School a Oakcrest and earned nine varsity letters in three sports — football (3), wrestling (3), After having registered 1,000-yard 1,083 yards and in 2000 three-time 1,095 in initial 2001, Hammock school’s was the hoping become to by curtailed was career his when gainer ground as condition heart life-threatening potentially a that to Wolfe guide to hopes he Now, senior. a achievement. pinnacle home after came Hammock The 24-year-old two seasons as a graduateUniversity of assistantWisconsin under backs Barryat running UW the Alvarez. with theworked initially 2003 He in White Brian coordinator offensive under Hueber Jim boss line offensive assisted then and in City (2003) 2004 as made Music the Badgers appearances. bowl (2004) Outback and senior his of games 11 final the No. that missing tests now of battery is the Despite undergoing while Hammock year diagnosis, medical his to led rushing with 100-yard list rushing all-time Illinois’ 12 Northern on 9 added and yards career 2,432 appearances. varsity 32 in performances A Doak preseason candidate Walker National for Running the Back prestigious Award, Hammock suffered from breathing problems and chest discomfort after leading all rushers with 172 yards and two TDs on 38 carries in a Uni Forest Wake over triumph overtime 42-41 ence record-breaking 1,915-yard campaign. 1,915-yard record-breaking ence versity versity in the 2002 He season opener. became a student coach and mentored Confer Michael Mid-American “The a during Turner Burner”

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receiv wide University Illinois Northern For www.niuhuskies.com has been a fertile proving ground for other of Rhode Island head man Floyd Keith. URI a Novak sideline contemporary in University 30-year-old 30-year-old Cruz had played and worked for coach Sean McDonnell. Prior to that, the the University of New Hampshire under head under Hampshire New of University the last five years coaching the running backs at receivers post in April of 2006. Cruz spent the spent Cruz 2006. of April in post receivers work out, his return visit landed him the wide the him landed visit return his out, work Novak’s staff prior to the 2005 campaign didn’t didn’t campaign 2005 the to prior staff Novak’s Joe on position a for interview an Although proved to be the charm.

Wide Receivers Carnelius Cruz

ers coach Carnelius Cruz, the second time

Thomas Hammock Running Backs streak). of of Minnesota matches NIU with a seven-year leads with 10 straight seasons and the University University the and seasons straight 10 with leads with a 1,000-yard rusher (the University of Texas Texas of University (the rusher 1,000-yard a with sion sion 1-A football with seven years consecutive Illinois is currently tied for second in NCAA Divi NCAA in second for tied currently is Illinois rest of the unit continue NIU’s string. Northern Northern string. NIU’s continue unit the of rest he’s he’s intent on having Garrett Wolfe and the And now as running backs coach for the Huskies, Huskies, the for coach backs running as now And yardage for two of those 1,000-yard campaigns. campaigns. 1,000-yard those of two for yardage First and foremost, he literally logged the truly personal for Thomas Hammock. Thomas for personal truly prowess prowess for producing 1,000-yard rushers, it’s When it comes to Northern Illinois University’s University’s Illinois Northern to comes it When ASSISTANT COACHES

Novak has assembled. It feels like the opportunity walk-on at Ball State University for head coach of a lifetime. For me, it’s the best situation you and former Huskie assistant in 1998, could have right now. We have great kids to work and then transferred to Wittenberg University. with, I know what is expected in our program, At WU, Hauser lettered four times as a free and I know our system.” safety for head coach Joe Fincham during a time Indeed he does having gone from being the when the Tigers won 44 of 50 games, captured video coordinator to the defensive grad assistant three North Coast Athletic Conference champion- slot for the last two falls during which the 27- ships, and made four consecutive appearances in year-old Hauser worked with NIU’s secondary. the NCAA Division III playoffs. Hauser handled the Huskie video duties for Selected team captain twice in 2001-02, Hauser 2003 when Novak’s troops produced a school- accumulated several league, regional, and na- record 10 regular-season triumphs, upset three tional honors. He was a three-time All-NCAC opponents, and ranked selection (2000-02), twice Football Gazette All- No. 10 in the first BCS standings released in mid- North Region (2001-02), and a Hewlett-Packard October. Division III All-America pick as a senior (2002). John Hauser For the next two falls, he worked alongside He also participated in the 2002 Aztec Bowl — a 36-year veteran Steve Bernstein, soaking up the Division III all-star game. Hauser spent the spring Secondary kind of strategy that helped the Huskies earn post- of 2003 as a volunteer aide at WU for Fincham, C H A M P I O N S Having to find a new place to live in DeKalb season berths to the 2005 Silicon Valley Football who has never had a losing season as the Tigers’ was well worth it as far as John Hauser was con- Classic and the 2006 Mid-American Conference head man. cerned. Championship Game. A 2002 graduate of Wittenberg with a bachelor After serving as a graduate assistant for the A native of Columbus, OH, and Bishop Hartley of arts degree in business management, Hauser Northern Illinois University football program High School, Hauser earned seven varsity mono- currently stands one class from his master’s in since the spring of 2003, Hauser had a full-time grams in two sports — football (4) and baseball adult education. He is single. job offer from an Ivy League program when (3). During his BHHS grid career, he played free the opportunity to return to Joe Novak’s staff safety, linebacker, and running back. He was The Hauser Files presented itself in April, 2006. Considering he named a First-Team All-Central Catholic League hadn’t yet unpacked his car upon arriving on the and Second-Team All-State linebacker on a playoff Years School Responsibilities east coast, returning to NIU was a no-brainer. qualifier as a senior in 1997. On the diamond, 2003 Spring Wittenberg Volunteer aide “After being here three years, it is an unbeliev- Hauser started at shortstop on the state Division 2003 Fall NIU GA (Video Coord.) able opportunity for me to be part of this staff 4 champion in 1996. 2004-05 NIU GA (Secondary) and be a part of the great program that coach He spent his collegiate freshman season as a 2006 NIU Secondary

from Division III to 1-A, Phelps joined the NIU which played in the 1996 Las Vegas Bowl. staff in February, 2006, as the defensive interior During his 1997 senior year, Phelps made line boss. Second-Team All-Mid-Am and served as a BSU Phelps spent the past three campaigns (2003- tri-captain. The six-foot, 234-pound backer 05) serving as the defensive line and special teams collected 106 overall hits, 11 tackles for loss, coach for Division II Hillsdale (MI) College. He and four QB sacks. He tied a career-high with worked for Charger head man and ex-BSU aide 13 hits against MAC champ Marshall University Keith Otterbein, whose teams went 4-7 in both and posted seven twin-digit tackle outings that 2003 and 2004 before going 5-6 last fall. fall. In his only game versus Northern Illinois and Prior to Hillsdale, Phelps was at Division III Novak, he registered nine tackles and a fumble- DePauw (IN) University where he helped coach cause hit in a 21-14 victory at Huskie Stadium. Nick Mourouzis’ 2000 crew go 6-4 and claim a As a prep, Phelps lettered in three sports share of the Southern Collegiate Athletic Confer- — football (2), wrestling (2) and track (3) — at 2001 2002 2004 2005 ence crown. He tutored the DU runningbacks Crete-Monee. On the gridiron, Phelps earned that year and the next before coaching the First-Team All-SICA South Conference accolades, Jeff Phelps linebackers for 2002. rushed for 800 yards and 10 touchdowns, and After a year in private business following his notched 50 tackles for coach Robert Pleper as a Defensive Interior Line graduation, Phelps returned to his Ball State senior in 1983. Northern Illinois University defensive interior University alma mater to start his sideline career Phelps earned a bachelor of science degree line coach Jeff Phelps came to DeKalb because he as a grad assistant working with the secondary in marketing from Ball State in 1998. He is listened to a Joe Novak talk, and to his heart. under Cardinal head man and former NIU as- single. “I heard coach Novak speak at our national sistant Bill Lynch. (American Football Coaches Association) conven- A four-year letterman and two-time All-MAC tion a couple years ago. As a I sat there and selection at Ball State, Phelps started the final listened, he gained my attention, and I thought 33 games of his career at outside linebacker and The Phelps Files M AC W E S T ‘how great would it be to work for him’.” produced 277 tackles in 44 overall appearances As a native of the Chicago suburbs and a for- for head coaches Paul Schudel (1994) and Lynch Years School Responsibilities mer Mid-American Conference honoree, Novak (1995-97). As a junior, he earned Honorable Men- 1999 Ball State GA (Secondary) also thought the 29-year-old University Park and tion All-MAC honors, notched 91 stops, 11 tackles 2000-01 DePauw Running Backs Crete-Monee High School product was a good for loss, seven QB sacks, five pass deflections, 2002 DePauw Linebackers fit for the Huskie staff. four fumble recoveries, and three fumble-cause 2003-06 Hillsdale Def. Line / Special Teams After a seven-year sideline career ranging hits on Ball State’s 8-4 MAC championship unit 2006 NIU Def. Interior Line

34 Coaching Staff www.niuhuskies.com M AC W E S T 2001 2002 2004 2005 C H A M P I O N S - - Secondary Secondary S&C Coord. (Intern) S&C (GA) Secondary Asst. S&C Coach Asst. Responsibilities Responsibilities Outside Linebackers The Sabock Files The Sabock The Mangum Files ence degree in health and physical educa tion, Sabock earned a master’s in athletic administration from Kent State University under the legendary Joe Paterno Nittany for Lions’ the included 7-4-1 stops coaching Aloha prep Ohio Bowl His squad 1983. in Alliance (1977-79) and Austin Youngstown schools. Fitch (1980-82) high Conference Athletics All-Ohio two-time A pick at Baldwin-Wallace College, started as a Sabock defensive back on the Yellow Jacket unit that ranked as high as No. 2 in NCAA Division III during 1976. He played both quarterback unbeaten on and School High Area defensive College State back at and a senior (10-0). squads as a junior (9-0) A 1977 BWC grad with a bachelor of sci in 1981. Spencer Sandy former the to married is He sons, two has couple The OH. Cleveland, of program) football Augustana the (in 19, Dan, and Kevin, 17. for designing, preparing, and coordinating and preparing, designing, for training activities for the K-Wings. off-ice Mangum earned his bachelor of science degree in exercise science with a minor in psychology from WMU in May, 1999. His professional résumé features a stint at the intern an as Vegas Nevada-Las of University Strongest in Lied UNLV’s Strength Complex. World’s In under that worked he capacity, Man competitor Mark Philippi. the Illinois to elevated Northern was to he coming assistant, originally an tag After as “interim” 2000 the in with 2001, July, in slot head 31-year- The 2002. of spring the in dropped old Mangum is a member of the National and Association, Conditioning and Strength degree arts liberal of associate an owns also Mount in College Community Macomb from Clemens, MI. He is single. 1984-86 1987-94 1995 NIU 1996 NIU 1997-2006 NIU NIU NIU Coord. Ends / Recruiting Def. / Recruiting Coord. Ends Tight Years Years 1983 School State Penn 1999-2000 UNLV Years Years 1999 School 2000-01 2002-06 UNLV NIU NIU / Interim S&C Coord. Asst. Coaching Staff 35 - - - - OACHES C SSISTANT A

tibone, , and Joe Novak. in aide His grid a for longest the as rates tenure history. major-college 37-year the school’s State the retained initially Novak 1996, In product in the dual capacity College, as PA, tight ends boss and recruiting coordinator to capitalize on his knowledge of the area and strong ties to the prep state’s coaches. That expertise was a perfect fit for Novak’s desire to make Illinois and the Chicagoland recruiting. area the focus of NIU’s Coming aboard during sec Huskie the the Corso coached has regime Sabock 1984, in Reynolds (2003). Northern Illinois had four straight previously Mid-Am Special claimed Teams Player addition In (2000-2003). awards Year the of to nationally ranked kick returners, Sabock PK as such types All-MAC First-Team tutored Steve Azar and punter Kent Baker. Sabock served an backfield an assistant coach defensive at Penn State University Sabock has Illinois head worked coaches—, Jerry with Pet four Northern ondary (1984-86, 1995), outside linebackers ondary (1984-86, 1995), ends defensive (1996), ends tight (1987-94), (1997-2004), and special teams. His pupils read like a Northern Illinois ranging Who’s from Who, 1993 Second-Team Academic CoSIDA All-America defensive OLB at picks Steve All-MAC consecutive Wild three to Vinson and 2004) (2002, Moore Travis in end summit. Mid-American the with familiar is “Mags” Conference, attending Western Michigan University, where he worked as and a coordinator for the Bronco coach Powerlift by benching 578 pounds. That qualified him for the 2005 WPC World Benchpress Championships in Helsinki, Finland, from him but kept a arm right his in fracure rehab stress own his Now meet. that in competing back him getting toward geared is routine on that international stage. Of courseeyebrows for some time now. He became Mangum has the youngest state been chairman in the history raising of the American Powerlifting Federation still he role—which that assumed he when fills—in his native state in 1996 at the age of 21. But his success shouldn’t come as a surprise, because he had already compiled a cham string National of Junior four-time APF a national becoming championships, pion (1995-97, 1999), and a Teenage World World Teenage a and 1999), (1995-97, pion features also case trophy His 1995. in titlist medal a trio of Junior fourth-place World bench press a crowns plus 1999), 1997, (1996, Federation Powerlifting U.S. 2000 the from ing Team. At the same time, he doubled as doubled he time, same the At Team. ing S&C coach for the Michigan K-Wings, the Dallas Stars’ affiliate in the prior camps training International during League Hockey responsible was He season. 1997-98 the to

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comes easy to Mike Sabock, and not just University Illinois Northern for Recruiting www.niuhuskies.com Conference’s Conference’s best according to expert Tom were ranked among the Mid-American most athletic, while the two previous groups previous two the while athletic, most Lemming. success both as a recruiter and in a variety of variety a in and recruiter a as both success recruiting class may be among the school’s defensive ends boss has contributed to NIU’s NIU’s to contributed has boss ends defensive Head coach Joe Novak believes his latest the Huskie program, but the 50-year-old coaching roles. Granted, he is starting his 23rd season with with season 23rd his starting is he Granted, because of his longevity in DeKalb.

Defensive Ends/Recruiting Coordinator Defensive Ends/Recruiting MIke Sabock Senior National Benchpress Championships Benchpress National Senior equation having placed third in the 2005 APF APF 2005 the in third placed having equation He certainly understands all aspects of that that of aspects all understands certainly He rehabbing, or trying to stay injury-free. conditioning needs of all 17 Huskie intercol Huskie 17 all of needs conditioning As the person overseeing the strength and and strength the overseeing person the As bar — be it with or without weights.

Matt Mangum and Conditioning Strength Matt Mangum is dedicated to raising the University strength and conditioning coach conditioning and strength University Northern Literally Illinois or figuratively, — whether that individual is competing, every NIU student-athlete in peak condition peak in student-athlete NIU every in 2001—Mangum is committed to having legiate sports—a task he initially took on SUPPORT STAFF

There is no truth to the rumor that Phil Voorhis A native of Piqua, OH, Voorhis began his sleeps in his Huskie Stadium office. It just seems career as a student trainer in Oxford, OH, at his like Northern Illinois University’s head athletic alma mater, Miami (OH) University. During his trainer never goes home. undergraduate days, he served internships with Voorhis, now in his 18th year with the Huskies New Miami High School as well as the Piqua and his 13th campaign in charge of the sports Medical Center. He also assisted with the Miami medicine operation, oversees a staff of assistants summer sports camps as well as working with the and athletic training students who cover every MU recreational program. NIU team from practice to competition and from Voorhis received his bachelor of arts degree conditioning to rehabilitation. in chemistry from Miami in 1989 and completed The 39-year-old trainer originally came to his master’s degree in education from NIU in Northern Illinois in August, 1989, as a graduate 1994. Aside from his National Athletic Trainers assistant athletic trainer. He was promoted to Association certification in 1989, Voorhis holds a full-time assistant role in August, 1992, before membership in the Great Lakes, Illinois, and assuming the sports medicine reins in Septem- Ohio Athletic Trainers Associations. He is a past ber, 1994. Among his many accomplishments president of the IATA after a term as region rep- Phil Voorhis is getting defibrilators added to all university resentative to that group’s Board of Directors. Head Athletic Trainer police vehicles and at all major campus athletics He is married to the former Jana Garman of

C H A M P I O N S venues. Covington, OH. The couple has three daughters, Voorhis was the 1996-97 recipient of the Clif- Victoria, 12, Daphne, 9, and Madeline, 2. ford Danielson Award, presented to the athlet- ics department member making a significant contribution to the local community.

Fortunately for Northern Illinois University, In December of 1995, Krone earned a bach- equipment manager Linda Krone’s versatility elor of science degree in physical education is only matched by her efficiency. from Cumberland University in Lebanon, TN. That’s why she was able to make an imme- She initially worked as a substitute teacher for diate transition to being the Huskie Stadium the Wilson County School system in Tennessee equipment manager just as two-a-days were before becoming a physical education and starting for the 2005 football campaign. While health instructor for Amboy (IL) Junior High reorganizing that operation on the fly, she School from 1996-2001. managed to keep NIU football as well men’s In addition to logging four seasons as a and women’s soccer, wrestling and women’s basketball coach for AJHS, she spent three on track for their seasons. The campaigns directing the program. second-year member of the American Equip- During that tenure, she worked as an Illinois ment Managers Association earned her AEMA High School Association certified official for Certification in June of 2006. basketball and softball (2000-01). The move to Huskie Stadium came just over From 2001-04, Krone worked for Somonauk a year after she joined the Northern Illinois High School as a P.E. and health teacher, includ- Linda Krone intercollegiate athletics staff as an extra help ing a year as a junior varsity volleyball coach and Equipment Manager employee for the Convocation Center, which two seasons as a JV softball boss. However, from serves as the home base to all of NIU’s other 2002-04, she did double duty as the Somonauk sports and the athletics administration. How- Middle School Activities Coordinator. ever, the Rock Falls, IL, native also helped the During the summer of 2003, Krone also com- intercollegiate athletics program by assisting pleted an internship in sport management at with team travel, football parking, the basket- Benedictine University. She earned a master’s 2001 2002 2004 2005 ball scorer’s table, or any of the other myriad degree in sports management from NIU in of tasks under the “other duties as assigned” December of 2004. heading. M AC W E S T

Scott Coy Brandon Staley Alex Golesh Julie Edwards Joyce James Grad. Assistant / Grad. Assistant / Grad. Assistant / Football Secretary Football Secretary Offense Defense Video Coord.

36 Coaching Staff www.niuhuskies.com