MARQUETTE, Mich. (Michigan News Source) – Coming back home to coach at his alma mater, Shane Richardson has been named the new head coach for Northern Michigan University. Richardson spent the past 17 years at University of North Carolina Pembroke as an assistant and head coach.

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Search committee advisor Steve Mariucci said, “I am certain that Shane is the right guy for our program. He brings significant experience as a head coach, is battle-tested and has a passion to bring his alma mater back to national prominence. I’m excited about what is ahead and wish Shane, his family, and his coaching staff all the best as they usher in a new era of Wildcat football.”

Richardson was the head coach at NCAA Division II UNC Pembroke from 2014 to 2022 posting a 37-48 record. His best season came in 2016 when UNCP went 10-2 advancing to the second round of the NCAA playoffs. From 2006-13, he spent time as the linebackers coach and defensive coordinator.

“It’s an absolute honor and privilege to be named the next head football coach at Northern Michigan University. The opportunity to come back to a place where my love of college football was forged is incredible,” says Richardson. “This program has a lot of potential for success and I’m looking forward to leading it. The pride that I have as a Wildcat, combined with the familiarity of Marquette and the Upper Peninsula, is a uniquely special fit. My family and I are excited to immerse ourselves into the community, connect with alumni, and to be a part of this great university and football program.”

Richardson was at NMU from 1996-2000 as a football player and was named the team’s co-most improved player in 1998. He was then the most valuable linebacker in 2000.

Director of Athletics Rick Comley comments, “I am pleased that Shane Richardson will be our next football coach. He is a loyal and proud alumnus who has grown while at UNC Pembroke and will use that experience to move Wildcat Football back toward contention in the GLIAC. NMU is proud of its football program and this is our first step on the road back to our expected level of support and success.”

Former player and current New York Jets head coach Robert Saleh was teammate of Richardson during his time at NMU. Saleh said about the hiring of Richardson, “Building upon an already solid foundation that began while playing for NMU, Shane has continued to exemplify what it means to be a Wildcat. Continually improving his approach to coaching and striving to be better and do better, Shane is exactly who our Wildcats have been looking for.”

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The career of Richardson started in 2002 at NMU as the linebacker coach. He also made stops at Jamestown in 2003 and North Dakota State in 2004 before going to UNC Pembroke.

Richardson is replacing Kyle Nystrom who went 13-40 in five seasons. NMU has a long road ahead of them with national champion Ferris State and former number one in the nation Grand Valley State on the schedule in the GLIAC.