Apr. 1, 2003

Mike Hayden - Citadel head coach Ellis Johnson announced Tuesday afternoon that John Zernhelt was named the Bulldogs' offensive coordinator for the upcoming 2003 season.

"We are very fortunate to get John Zernhelt and to land him here at The Citadel," Johnson stated. "John's level of experience and knowledge of the game of football will definitely be a valued addition to our coaching staff.

Zernhelt is coming off a four year coaching stop at James Madison where he served as the offensive coordinator and offensive line coach. During his tenure with the Dukes he coached several all-league recipients and in 1999 saw one of his players set school records for rushing yards and rushing touchdowns en route to becoming the Atlantic 10 Offensive Player-of-the-Year.

Before joining the Dukes he made coaching stops at South Carolina (1996-98), Duke (1994-1995), Rice (1992-93), Maryland (1987-1991), East Carolina (1982-1986), Marshall (1981) and Ferrum (1977-1980).

Zernhelt, a 1977 graduate of the University of Maryland, earned a bachelor's degree in education. Zernhelt also enjoyed a fine playing career at his alma mater where he earned three letters in football and played on three ACC championship teams that played in the Liberty, Gator and Cotton bowls.