Jan. 8, 2007

Fremont, Neb. -  The Midland Lutheran College athletic department held a press conference Monday afternoon at the Event Center for Athletics and Conferencing outlining the new leadership formula for the Midland Lutheran College football program.

After five seasons as head coach, Bob Dzuris announced his resignation in December, through that time compiling a record of 23-30.  Today, Midland Lutheran College announced that Steve Schneider and Casey Thiele will begin their roles as co-head football coaches of Midland Lutheran College.

Schneider returns to lead the Warriors after serving ten seasons as the head coach from 1992-2001, which included an NAIA national playoff appearance in 1994.  In addition to his co-head coaching duties, Schneider will also serve as the Director of Football Operations. Serving as the school's athletic director since 1992, Schneider will step down from that position and duties will be covered by Assistant Athletic Director Keith Kramme, on an interim basis.

Thiele also returns to the Warrior coaching staff.  After serving as the college's defensive coordinator in 2004-05, Thiele was the head coach at Centennial High School (NE) this past season.  In addition to his co-head coaching duties, Thiele will be the programs defensive coordinator.

Midland Lutheran College President Dr. Steven E. Titus introduced the co-head coaches today. 

"Today we are taking the football program in a new direction.  Today we are announcing a new formula for Warrior football."  Titus said, "We are implementing a strategy for success.  It is a unique strategy that is determined to make certain our students succeed both on and off the field."

Steve Schneider outlined the new coaching formula.

"I'm excited to have the opportunity to work with Casey and our fine staff of assistant coaches."  Schneider said, "This new coaching formula will provide a great opportunity for our student athletes to succeed on and off the field."

The Warriors will begin the 2007 season, September 1^st at Dakota Wesleyan University.