ADRIAN, Mich. – Siena Heights University announced that Matt Kohn, who served as interim head football coach during the 2016 season, was named the permanent head coach. SHU Athletic Director Fred Smith announced the decision Dec. 6.

"Coach Kohn did an outstanding job leading our football program this past fall," Smith said. "In fact, our entire staff came together under Coach Kohn's leadership as interim coach. Coach Kohn was a mainstay on Coach Jim Lyall's first staff in 2011, and has been a valuable member of the Siena Heights community."

"It is a true honor and blessing to have the opportunity to continue to serve the Siena Heights community in the capacity of the head football coach," said Kohn. "My sincerest thanks to President Sister Peg Albert, athletic director Fred Smith and Dean for Students Michael Orlando for allowing me this tremendous opportunity. Siena Heights is a great place to be, and I hope to have a long career here."

The Saints, who completed their fifth varsity season in 2016, were 5-5 this past season, competing in the NAIA Mid-States Football Association's Mideast Division. SHU upset then nationally ranked St. Xavier (Ill.) 30-29 and lost 24-22 to division foe St. Francis (Ind.), which is playing in the NAIA national championship game Dec. 17.

"We not only want our student-athletes to be competitive on the field, but also competent, purposeful and ethical in the classroom and in the community," President Albert said. "We know Matt believes in the mission of Siena Heights, and are thankful that he will be leading our football program into the future."

Part of the original football coaching staff at SHU, Kohn was named the MSFA Mideast Assistant Coach of the Year in 2014. Kohn previously coached at his alma mater, the University of Indianapolis, from 2005-08. As a player, Kohn was a four-year letter winner at quarter for UI. The former quarterback holds several school records, as well as the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference record for most passing yards in a game (645). He was also a standout athlete at Adrian High School.

The 35-year-old Lenawee County native received his master's degree in organizational leadership from SHU in 2015.

For more about SHU football, please visit www.shusaints.com.