Illinois Wesleyan University introduced its new head football coach to the public on Thursday.
Jared Williamson took over for Norm Eash, who retired at the end the 2024 season as the longest-tenured head coach in NCAA football. Williamson coached under Eash from 2006 until 2010, first as a graduate assistant coach and then as offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach.
“That ‘06 class was a special group that carried the group for several years, and learned from those players that were in front of them,” said Williamson. “And so I think it's going to start, obviously, with the current players in the weight room, but to bring in some outstanding young men, and let's get after it.”
In June 2010, Williamson moved on to Robert Morris University [Illinois]. He coached the football program and served as deputy athletics director through a merger with Roosevelt University and a transition into Division II football — earning two conference championships and two conference coach of the year awards.
“I grew a lot as a coach, obviously, as a family, we grew it's not necessarily a place you're looking to leave. Everybody who knows me knows that you would only leave for a place even more special in your heart,” said Williamson. “And I think the whole community in general — in Wesleyan — is that place. So, I will gladly do this as long as they'll have me.”
Williamson noted student-athletes make up nearly 45% of the student population.
“Those students are more engaged with other students, and they stay in school longer,” said Williamson. “So, I think that model is going to spread, not just through Division III, but through a lot of other universities in Illinois and other places.”
Williamson said he's already seen plenty of support from alumni and fans as he leads the team into a new era of Titan football.
“The alumni group has been unbelievable in terms of their excitement to support, just letting me know that they bleed green and whatever they can do to assist to get student-athletes and expand their experience at Illinois Wesleyan — that they're there for that. It has been maybe one of the most unbelievable things,” said Williamson.
