Bringing with him 17 years of Division I and I-AA coaching experience, John Klacik was named Lock Haven University head football coach, university administration announced today (March 8). Klacik served most recently as offensive coordinator/offensive line coach at Youngstown State University.

“I’m very excited to be back in Lock Haven, where it all started for me from a football standpoint,” Klacik said. “I look forward to the challenge of bringing success back to this great football program.”

Klacik, an LHU alum, has spent all but one season of his coaching career at YSU, and was a part of four NCAA I-AA National Championship teams. He started with the Penguins as tight ends coach, working his way up the ladder through the offense, moving to wide receivers, quarterbacks, offensive line and then as offensive coordinator for the last four seasons. Klacik worked under current Ohio State University head coach Jim Tressel for 12 years.

He also spent the 2000 season at Division I Wake Forest University, working with the quarterbacks before returning to YSU in his most recent role.

A standout wide receiver, Klacik graduated with a bachelors degree in sports/fitness management from LHU in 1988. He led the Bald Eagles in receiving yards in each of his four seasons at the Haven, ranking eighth in school history with 1,976 career yards.

“We’re very happy to have attracted John back to lead the football program at his alma mater,” said director of athletics Sharon Taylor. “He’s obviously had a great career at Youngstown State, he’s ready for the next step, and we’re pleased he’s chosen Lock Haven as the place to make that happen.”

The Lock Haven sports information department will hold a press conference welcoming head coach Klacik. The conference is scheduled for Tuesday, March 15 at 9 a.m.

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