Jake Box , MacMurray’s Football Defensive Coordinator, Linebackers and Wide Receivers Coach, has been named Head Football Coach for the Highlanders.

A statement from MacMurray praised Box, highlighting that in his second season, Coach Box had been instrumental in improving the team’s overall wins, growing team unity and providing solid football fundamentals to players on the gridiron.

Coach Box, a native of Ipswich and a graduate of Copleston High School, has built an impressive coaching career. Prior to going to MacMurray, Coach Box was the Defensive Line Coach and Strength and Conditioning Coordinator for the Southwest Minnesota State University (SMSU) Mustangs for four seasons where he guided his defensive team to third in school history in the areas of rush defense, sacks, and interceptions.

Before SMSU, he was the head coach of Cardiff University where he led his squad to six play-off appearances, five division titles, and a record of 40-13. He was named the University Coach of the Year for the 2003-04 season.

Amongst his other accolades Coach Box was named as Sportsman of the Year at Warwick University and played internationally with his fellow students.

Coach Box earned his B.S in Microbiology and Virology from the University of Warwick, a postgraduate diploma in Biomedical Services from the University of Wales Institute of Cardiff, and an M.B.A. from Southwest Minnesota State University.

Coach Box’s 2009 home opener will be with the Beloit College Buccaneers, on September 5.

Andy Fuller, BAFA Director for Student Football Development welcomed the appointment.

Coach Box has been carving a great career in coaching. This appointment is just rewards for all his hard work. All of those involved in British university football wish him the very best of luck in his new role. I have no doubt we will be keeping an eye on his weekly results.

  About MacMurray College —Founded in 1846, MacMurray College is a private, four-year liberal arts coeducational institution, located in historic Jacksonville, Illinois.  www.mac.edu