2009 FINALIST: Bob Nielson, University of Minnesota Duluth

Division II

Bob Nielson has done a wonderful job of getting these young men to perform their best and to do so with dignity and respect. The football players perform well in the classroom and have excellent attitudes about their classwork. ~ Professor Kristelle Miller

About This Coach

Coach Nielson began his career at Ripon College in Wisconsin, followed by stints at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Clair and his alma mater, Wartburg College in Iowa, where he earned a B.A. in physical education. Nielsen came on board at UMD in 1998, leading the Bulldogs to new heights and earning the 2002 NSIC Coach of the Year award. After a four-season hiatus, he returned to UMD in 2008, guiding the Bulldogs to set or equal 50 team and individual records, capture the NSIC title and produce nine All-Americans.

Team and Coach Involvement in the Community

• Member of the NCAA Division II Super Regional Advisory Committee
• President/Chair of Board for the UDAC “Walk a Mile in Our Shoes” campaign to support STEPS Center
• Organizes the Duluth Junior Football League Clinic for youth players and coaches
• Players, coaches and staff volunteer for charity fishing tournament to raise money for ALS research