University of Wisconsin, Whitewater Men's Football

Jace Rindahl enters his third season at the head coach of the Warhawk football program in 2025. Rindahl has been on staff since 2015 serving as run defense coordinator, linebackers coach and defensive coordinator prior to taking the helm in 2023.  In his first year as head coach, Rindahl led the Warhawks to an 11-2 mark that included a 6-0 start to the season - all against ranked opponents. Rindahl picked up two NCAA postseason victories in his first year, leading the Warhawks to the quarterfinals. The 2024 squad capped the season with a 6-4 record.  Prior to taking over the head role, Rindahl helped the Warhawks win the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference championship and reach the semifinals of the NCAA Playoffs as the defensive coordinator. Rindahl's defense allowed 12.2 points per game, good for 11th in NCAA Division III, and also ranked among the top 15 in the nation in rushing defense (56.7 yards per game) and turnovers forced (27). The Warhawks finished as WIAC champion and NCAA Division III national runner-up in 2019. The team led the WIAC and ranked sixth in the nation in rushing defense, allowing only 63.8 yards per game on the ground. Linebacker Kaleb Kaminski was named honorable mention All-America by D3football.com, and he was joined as an All-WIAC honoree by linebacker Jacob Erbs. Rindahl earned Wisconsin Football Coaches Association College Assistant Coach of the Year honors following the 2018 season, when the Warhawks led the WIAC and ranked eighth in NCAA Division III in scoring defense, allowing just over 10 points per game. Three UW-Whitewater linebackers were named All-WIAC in 2018, including all-region selection Bryce Leszczynski. The Warhawks led the WIAC in scoring defense in 2017, allowing only 14.7 points per contest. Bryce Leszczynski led the team and ranked second in the conference with 90 tackles, and was named first team All-WIAC following the season. In 2016, UW-Whitewater claimed the WIAC championship and a berth in the quarterfinal round of the NCAA Playoffs. With the help of a solid linebacking corps, the team allowed only 83.1 rushing yards per game, good for 16th in the nation. Two linebackers garnered All-WIAC accolades, including first-teamer Matt Seitz, and three different Warhawk linebackers tallied 60 or more tackles during the season. In Rindahl's first season on staff, the Warhawks allowed a WIAC-leading 112.9 yards per game. Two UW-Whitewater linebackers earned All-WIAC honors, including senior Justin Dischler, an All-America selection by the American Football Coaches Association, the Associated Press and D3football.com. A member of the UW-Whitewater football team from 2005-08, Rindahl was a first team All-American and the D3football.com Defensive Player of the Year as a senior linebacker in 2008 after leading the Warhawks to their fourth straight appearance in the Stagg Bowl national championship game. UW-Whitewater won its first NCAA Division III title in 2007, when Rindahl tallied 107 tackles, good for second on the team, and four interceptions. In 2011, he was selected to the WIAC's All-Time Football Team as a prelude to the conference's Centennial Celebration in 2013. Following his playing career, Rindahl served as linebackers coach and special teams assistant from 2009-12, a span during which the Warhawks won three conference and national championships. Under Rindahl's leadership, one linebacker was named an All-American in each season from 2009-11. Rindahl returned to UW-Whitewater following a two-year stint as running backs coach at the University of South Dakota, a Football Championship Subdivision institution. A native of Cambridge, Wis., Rindahl graduated from UW-Whitewater with a bachelor's in physical education in 2010. He earned his master's in professional development in 2012.  

Coach Beau Martin – In His Own Words As a UW-Whitewater alumnus and a member of the 2014 national championship team, I’m thrilled to serve on the football coaching staff. In my role as Linebackers Coach, Associate Head Coach, Special Teams Coordinator, and Recruiting Coordinator, I’m honored to carry on the tradition of excellence that has defined this program. I got into the coaching profession to influence young men because this game had a huge role in developing me, and I want to pass that on. UW-Whitewater holds a special place in my heart, and being part of this program is a dream come true.   Carrying on the tradition ------------------------- My journey with UW-Whitewater began when I joined as a student-athlete, earning a bachelor’s degree in history with a double minor in Spanish and sports management in 2018. During my time here, I played linebacker for the Warhawks from 2014 to 2018, contributing to the national championship win in 2014 and three conference championships. I played in 37 games over those four years, and those experiences shaped not only my athletic prowess, but also my character and dedication. After graduating in 2018, I immediately joined the UWW staff as a graduate assistant for the 2019 season, working with the defensive line. In 2020, I was promoted to a full-time assistant coach position, and since then, I have held various roles on the staff. My coaching philosophy centers around developing the whole person. I firmly believe that football, and sports in general, can have a profound impact on young individuals, just as it did for me. I strive to achieve this by fostering strong relationships, paying attention to detail, instilling discipline, and ensuring that we have fun along the way.   Making a lasting impact ----------------------- As I reflect on my journey at UW-Whitewater, I can’t help but feel grateful for the opportunities and experiences this institution has provided me with. Being able to coach for the team I once played for is a tremendous honor, and I approach each day with the utmost respect and dedication. I am privileged to work alongside talented coaches and staff members who share the same passion for developing student-athletes both on and off the field. Together, we strive to create an environment that fosters growth, discipline, and success. My personal history with the university and the football program fuels my commitment to nurturing the next generation of Warhawks, and I’m excited to continue this incredible journey and contribute to the legacy of success at UW-Whitewater. Education: Bachelors in History (UW-Whitewater '18); Master's in Professional Studies (UW-Whitewater '20) Playing Experience: Linebacker for UW-Whitewater from 2014-18 (national title in 2014) Coaching Experience: UW-Whitewater 2019 to present in various roles

Coach Hookstead -- In His Own Words I'm thrilled to begin my first season (2025) with the Warhawks football staff at UW-Whitewater. I will be coaching the offensive line, and I'm also part of the admissions team as a transfer admissions counselor. This will be my 13th season coaching college football. UW-Whitewater has a strong tradition of graduating student-athletes, pursuing and achieving excellence, and being a first-class program. Joining this program allows me to grow as a coach and work with some of the best student-athletes in the country. Coming home ------------ As a Whitewater native, my wife and I both graduated from Whitewater High School and have a lot of family in the area. So, when the opportunity came for us to return home and have our children be closer to family, it was an opportunity we couldn't pass up.  Whitewater is a great place to come back to, and I'm excited to be part of this community once again. Professional background ----------------------- I graduated from Whitewater High School in 2009 before earning my bachelor’s degree from the University of Dubuque in 2013 and a master’s degree from Upper Iowa University in 2016.  During my time at Dubuque, I played college football and basketball, which fueled my passion for coaching. My coaching journey began at the University of Dubuque, where I held various positions, including offensive line coach, wide receivers coach, running backs coach, defensive line coach, and offensive coordinator.  These experiences have provided me with invaluable insights and knowledge to bring to the coaching staff and program at UW-Whitewater. A commitment to excellence -------------------------- I bring years of experience and positional knowledge to the staff at UW-Whitewater. My coaching philosophy revolves around a commitment to excellence and a passion for developing student-athletes both on and off the field.  I'm eager to contribute to the success of the Warhawks and help our student-athletes reach their full potential. Family and community --------------------- Outside of coaching, my family is my greatest joy.  I married my wife, Kelsey, in 2017, and we have four children: Wesley, Kameron, Treyson, and Braylon. We also have a dog named Rambo.  We currently reside in Whitewater, and being close to family and the community is something we cherish deeply. Returning to my roots in Whitewater and joining the UW-Whitewater football program is a dream come true. I'm excited to be part of a program that values excellence and community, and I can't wait to contribute to the success of the Warhawks.

Coach Mike Mardis – In His Words My journey to becoming a coach and instructor at UW-Whitewater has been anything but conventional. From my days as a student-athlete to my career as a trauma nurse, I’ve always been driven by a passion for learning and a desire to make a difference. Today, as the tight ends coach and a kinesiology department instructor, I’m thrilled to bring my unique blend of experiences and knowledge to the table. I’m excited to contribute to the success of our athletes both on and off the field.   My Journey ----------------------------- My educational journey began at Indiana State, where I earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing. During my time as a student-athlete, I had the honor of being elected as a team captain and was recognized with several academic and athletic honors. These achievements laid the foundation for my future endeavors, instilling in me the values of hard work, discipline, and leadership. After completing my undergraduate studies, I embarked on a career in nursing, working as a trauma nurse for several years. While I found great fulfillment in helping others during their most vulnerable moments, my passion for football and coaching never waned. I knew that I wanted to combine my love for the sport with my desire to make a positive impact on young athletes. In pursuit of this goal, I made the decision to return to school and pursue a Master of Business Administration at UW-Whitewater. This decision not only allowed me to broaden my knowledge and skills but also brought me closer to the university that would become my second home. As a graduate assistant for the offensive line, I had the opportunity to work closely with the coaching staff and gain valuable experience. One of the aspects that drew me to UW-Whitewater was the culture and location near my hometown. The university has a rich tradition of athletic excellence and a strong sense of community. I knew that being a part of this institution would allow me to make a meaningful impact on the lives of student-athletes.   Coaching Philosophy ------------------------- As a coach, my philosophy centers around relationships. I firmly believe that coaching is more than just X’s and O’s; it’s about connecting with athletes on a personal level and helping them grow both on and off the field. I bring a diverse wealth of knowledge from my experiences as a player and coach in various football systems. I’m passionate about football and the opportunities it provides for personal and academic growth. In addition to my coaching responsibilities, I have the privilege of serving as an instructor in the kinesiology department. Teaching allows me to share my knowledge and experiences with students who are eager to learn and pursue careers in the field of health and physical education. It’s incredibly rewarding to see students develop a passion for their chosen profession and equip them with the tools they need to succeed.   Who I Am ------------------------- My journey to UW-Whitewater has been a testament to the power of following one’s passion and embracing new opportunities. From my days as a student-athlete to my career as a trauma nurse and now as a coach and instructor, I’ve been fortunate to have a diverse range of experiences that have shaped me into the person I am today. I’m grateful for the opportunity to be a part of the UW-Whitewater community and contribute to the success of our athletes in the classroom and on the field. I look forward to continuing this journey and making a lasting impact on the lives of those I have the privilege to work with.    

Lee Munger, strength and conditioning coordinator, has worked for the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater since 2005. Before coming to UW-Whitewater, Munger was the first full-time strength and conditioning coordinator at South Dakota State University. From 2002-05, Munger worked for SDSU, where he guided the 20-sport program and helped in the transition from NCAA Division II to Division I. While working at SDSU, Munger also directed the Frappier Acceleration Program for area high school and college athletes. Prior to working at SDSU, Munger worked as a sports performance coach at a private training facility in Sacramento, Calif.  Munger owns a bachelor’s degree from SDSU in health promotion. While a student at SDSU, Munger was a four-year letter winner in football. He received a master’s degree in human performance and sports administration from the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, where he was a graduate assistant with the strength and conditioning program. Munger is a certified strength and conditioning specialist through the National Strength and Conditioning Association and a level one club coach from the United States Weightlifting Association.

Kelly Loudon joined the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater Sports Medicine staff as an athletic trainer in August of 2023.  Loudon most recently completed a master's of science in athletic training from UW-Madison in 2023. While completing her graduate degree, Loudon worked with the Badgers' football, men's and women's hockey and women's basketball programs.  Loudon received her undergraduate degree in biology from Beloit College in 2021. 

Whitney Williams joined the UW-Whitewater sports medicine staff as an athletic trainer in August 2021. She will work primarily with football, women's track and field and gymnastics at UW-Whitewater. Williams comes to UW-Whitewater after serving as Assistant Athletic Trainer at Albion College in Albion, Mich., from 2018-21. She worked primarily with the men's soccer, women's soccer, men's basketball, softball, men's tennis and women's tennis teams. In 2019, Williams implemented a mental health program in Albion's athletic department.   Williams served as a guest lecturer in the kinesiology department's sports medicine classes. She also coordinated social media campaigns for athletic training services.   Williams graduated from the Winona State University in 2015 with a degree in athletic training. She earned her master's in kinesiology and recreation with emphasis in athletic training from Illinois State University in 2018.

Coach Ryan Cortez – In His Own Words UW-Whitewater football has been a part of my life since I first stepped foot on campus in 2009. I played linebacker for the Warhawks from 2009-2013, winning three national championships as a player and earning all-conference honors on three occasions. After my playing days were over, I knew I wanted to get into coaching ... more importantly, I knew I wanted to do it at UW-Whitewater. I’ve been fortunate to serve in a multitude of roles since I joined the coaching staff in 2014. I started out as a graduate assistant coaching the linebackers and tight ends. In 2017, I moved back to the defensive side of the ball and have been coaching the defensive line ever since. I’ve also been the defensive coordinator since 2021. Football has always been a big part of my life, but even more than that, I love UW-Whitewater — the campus, the community, and the people. I’ve been a Warhawk my entire adult life, and I can’t imagine being anywhere else.   Coaching philosophy ------------------- When I look back on my time as a student-athlete, I am so grateful for all the people who have impacted my life. I had so many coaches and mentors who helped me grow as a player and as a person. They were there for me when I needed them most and helped me understand that football is more than just a game. It’s a way to learn about life and prepare for the future. As a coach, that is my goal every day. I want to be a resource for our guys and help them become the best versions of themselves. To me, it doesn’t matter if you’re an All-American or if you decide football isn’t for you after a year. I am here to help each young man reach his full potential on and off the field. I wouldn’t be where I am today without the support of others, and I want to do everything I can to pay it forward.   Away from the field ------------------- When I’m not coaching or recruiting, I try to spend as much time as I can with my family. My wife, Ashley, is my rock, and we have three kids — Roman, Carter, and Drae. They are my heart and soul. I also love going back home to Palatine, Illinois, whenever I get a chance. My parents and sister still live there, and I always enjoy going back to visit. Home is where the heart is, and I’m so blessed to have two places that I can call home. Palatine is where I’m from, and it will always be a special place to me, but Whitewater is where I’ve spent the last 14 years of my life. I’ve lived here, went to school here, and now I work here. I’m also an instructor, in addition to my coaching duties, and I love being a part of the campus community. I’m a Warhawk through and through, and I’m so thankful to be able to call Whitewater home.   Education: Health and Human Performance BS (UW-Whitewater ‘13); Higher Education MS (UW-Whitewater) Playing Experience: UW-Whitewater 2009-13 – Linebacker (three national championships) Coaching Experience: UW-Whitewater 2014-present (linebackers, tight ends, defensive line, defensive coordinator)