Full Breakdown
Matt Walker Resigns as UW-River Falls Head Football Coach to Join Drake University
2/24/2026, 1:37:13 AM
Transition from UW-River Falls to Drake University
Matt Walker has resigned from his position as the head football coach at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls (UW-River Falls) to accept a similar role at Drake University in Des Moines, Iowa. Walker's departure follows a successful 15-year tenure at UW-River Falls, where he revitalized the football program, leading the team to a record 14 wins and an NCAA Division III national title in the most recent season. His efforts earned him recognition as D3football.com’s National Coach of the Year and the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WIAC) Coach of the Year.
Achievements at UW-River Falls
During his time at UW-River Falls, Walker transformed a struggling program that had won only three games in his first three years. Under his leadership, the Falcons clinched their first WIAC title since 1998, marking a significant turnaround in the team's performance and culture. Athletic Director Crystal Lanning praised Walker for his dedication to improving the program's culture, academic performance, and competitiveness, stating that he "created a culture of pride and excellence within the team."
Official Statements & Responses
In a statement regarding his resignation, Walker expressed deep gratitude for his time at UW-River Falls, saying, “I’ve given everything I had to UWRF and feel good about leaving it in a better place than we found it.” He acknowledged the support from the administration, coaching staff, and student-athletes, emphasizing the familial atmosphere he fostered within the program.
Drake University's Athletic Director Brian Hardin welcomed Walker, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome Matt Walker and his family to Drake and Des Moines.” He highlighted Walker's ability to turn around a program that had previously struggled, expressing confidence in Walker's potential to elevate the Bulldogs' football team.
Criticism & Opposition
While Walker's achievements have been widely celebrated, some community members have expressed concern over the timing of his departure, questioning the impact on the team’s momentum and the potential challenges in finding a suitable replacement. UW-River Falls has not yet disclosed its plans or timeline for selecting a new head coach, leaving uncertainty among fans and players alike.
What's Next
As Walker transitions to his new role at Drake University, the focus will shift to UW-River Falls as they seek a new head coach to continue building on the foundation established during Walker's tenure. The search for a replacement will be critical in maintaining the program's recent success and ensuring a smooth transition for the team and its supporters.
