Boyd named defensive coordinator for the Muskie football program

NEW CONCORD, OHIO, February 8, 2007 - Muskingum College today announced that Shap Boyd has been named as its new football defensive coordinator.

Boyd arrives in New Concord from Washington University in Saint Louis where he was defensive coordinator from 2004-06. Under his guidance last season, the Bears’ defense ranked third in NCAA Division III in the total defense and 10th in rushing defense. Furthermore, both his defensive squads in 2004 and 2005 were among the best in the nation in total defense. Moreover, under his tutelage, three Bears garnered All-American accolades, including Drew Wethington who last year led the country in tackles for loss.

“I know Shap and I know his work ethic. He has a great understanding of the defensive side of the ball and he will bring that expertise to the Muskie program,” said Muskingum Head Coach Al Logan. “He’s a quality coach whose knowledge of the game will benefit our players. We are real excited about Coach Boyd and his family being here at Muskingum.”

Prior to his success at Washington University, Boyd spent five seasons at Jacksonville University, a Division I-AA non-scholarship program in Jacksonville, Fla. He served as the defensive coordinator and associate head coach while at Jacksonville. Boyd helped lead the Dolphins to their second best record in school history in 2003.

Boyd, with more than 20 years of collegiate coaching experience, brings a wealth of knowledge to the Fighting Muskie program. His previous coaching stints include stops at Middle Tennessee State, University of Kentucky, Lock Haven University, Lycoming College and the University of the South (Sewanee). Additionally, Boyd spent two years coaching high school football at Lake Highland Prep in Orlando, Fla.

Boyd graduated with a bachelor of arts degree in psychology from the University of the South in 1985 after a four-year playing career at free safety where he played for Coach Logan. The two-time All-Southern Collegiate Athletic Conference selection was voted team captain as a senior and helped lead Sewanee to a conference championship in 1983.

A native of Saint Louis, Mo. (Parkway Central High School), Boyd received his master’s degree in health, physical education, recreation and safety in 1987 from Middle Tennessee State. Boyd and his wife, Elizabeth, have three children.