UNI Poaches 'Coach of the Year' from In-State Rival

After an outstanding career with the University of Northern Iowa football team, Head Coach Mark Farley announced his retirement in November.

Now, just two weeks after his final game, a rising star in college athletics is stepping in to take up the mantle.

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Mark Farley's Farewell

Farley has been a part of the Panther family for approximately forty years now.

"For me, UNI Football has always been about setting a standard that goes beyond the game. It has been about a legacy of resilience, pride, hard work and excellence," the head coach said in a statement.

"Watching our players grow into leaders and champions on and off the field and carry that standard with them beyond the football field has been the greatest reward of my career."

The winningest coach in UNI and Missouri Valley Football Conference history wrapped up his career with a win against Indiana State on Saturday, November 23rd.

Who Will They Get to Replace Coach Farley?

Less than two weeks after Farley's finale with the Panthers, University of Northern Iowa officials announced just who will be stepping into the longtime coach's shoes.

Todd Stepsis has accepted the UNI Football head coaching position.

The new member of the coaching staff is coming off of six seasons working with Drake University as that team's head coach.

UNI President Mark Nook issued a statement regarding the announcement of Stepsis stepping into the role:

"Coach Stepsis has created an exemplary record of helping young men and football programs develop and grow during his previous coaching stops. We hope that he and his family will call the University of Northern Iowa and the Cedar Valley home for many years.

We wish Todd and his family the very best as we embark on this journey together. Panther Proud!"

Stepsis helped lead Drake to back-to-back FCS Playoff berths, conference championships and is a two-time Pioneer Football League Coach of the Year.

"As someone who has lived in Iowa for the past decade and who has recruited across the Midwest, I know the reputation of excellence that University of Northern Iowa carries as both an academic institution and as an athletic department," Stepsis said in a statement.

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