2009 FINALIST: John Stiegelmeier, South Dakota State

Division IAA

To Coach Stiegelmeier, his team isn't just made up of players, his team is made up of young men. He mentors these men into more than just football players. He knows football brought them together, but their future is much more important. ~ Rich Widman

About This Coach

Coach Stiegelmeier has led the Jackrabbits to eleven winning seasons during his thirteen years as head coach. In 2007, when SDSU claimed its first Great West Football Conference title in more than forty years, Stiegelmeier was named conference coach of the year. After graduating from SDSU with degrees in mathematics and physical education, he later received his doctorate from the University of Wisconsin. Aside from coaching, Stiegelmeier is active in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, serving as a Team Huddle leader.

Team and Coach Involvement in the Community

• Serves on board of directors for South Dakota Fellowship of Christian Athletes
• Volunteered at Special Olympics
• Team visited two children’s hospitals and the Children’s Home Society
• Team read at local elementary schools and visited retirement homes
• Team worked at area youth football clinics

* Academic Progress Rate