HOME OF BULLDOG FOOTBALL - 28 SCIAC Championships, including 10 since 1990

The University of Redlands and Bulldog Athletics are excited to announce the hiring of Joseph “Joey” Mariani as the full-time assistant offensive football coach, effective February 10.

No stranger to the Maroon and Gray, Mariani originally joined the staff at Redlands on a part-time basis during the summer of 2007, working primarily with the running backs.

“I am excited and privileged to be part of such a great academic institution that understands the balance of academics, student life, and an amazing football experience,” stated Mariani. “I am appreciative to the University’s administration, faculty, and athletic staff for welcoming me to the traditions of the University of Redlands and Bulldog football.”

“We are thrilled to have Coach Mariani join us on a full-time basis. He is an exceptional football coach who brings a wealth of coaching expertise and leadership to our staff,” commented Head Coach Mike Maynard. “He has a knack for communication and for getting the most out of every player’s potential. Plus, Coach Mariani makes the work fun.”

A member of the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA), Mariani brings 20 years of coaching experience, holding stints at Garey High School in Pomona as the head football coach for six years and defensive coordinator for three years. Prior to joining the Bulldogs, he served as the defensive coordinator at his alma mater of Fontana High School. Earlier in his career, Mariani coached the defensive line and linebackers for the legendary Dick Bruich at Fontana High School.

This native of Norristown, Pennsylvania, earned his Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology from Cal State University San Bernardino.

In high school, Mariani helped guide the Steelers of Fontana High School to the 1987 National Football Championship. Currently, he is the only person in Fontana High School history to win a CIF Championship as a player (1987) and as a coach (1989).

The University of Redlands will continue the candidate search for the team’s defensive coordinator, which was vacated by Jeff Thomas’ recent move to the University of Puget Sound (WA) as the Loggers’ new head coach.