CHADRON, Neb. — Chadron State College defensive coordinator Todd Auer has accepted an assistant coaching position at Colorado Mesa University.
Auer, who completed his 22nd year of coaching at CSC, will be the Mavericks' defensive coordinator.
Auer will work for Mesa's new coach, Russ Martin, a Chadron State graduate and former University of Nebraska at Kearney offensive coordinator.
"I appreciate everything Todd has done for our football program, and I wish him the best of luck in his new endeavor," CSC Athletic Director Brad Smith said.
Auer said it was tough to leave Chadron State and the community.
"This was an opportunity to work for a great guy in Coach Martin," Auer said. "It was tough to leave Chadron because the best thing about this place is the people. There's a reason I've been here as long as I have. We've had great success here. Things change, though, and things happen for a reason. I have a lot of great memories of Chadron State and it's been fun being here. I'm going to miss all the players and I have many fond memories dealing with my family and friends."
Auer has been involved with 142 victories since becoming the defensive coordinator for the Eagles in 1994. Prior to that, he coached the offensive line for four seasons.
During his time at the school, he helped guide the Eagles to five Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference titles nine top 20 rankings in the American Football Coaches Association Final Poll.
Auer's defenses led the conference in total defense 11 times, rushing defense 10 times, scoring defense nine times and passing defense five times.
Chadron State is searching for a head football coach. Bill O'Boyle, who compiled a record of 57-21 in seven years at the school, did not have his contract, which expires in June, renewed.
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