Michael Tesch Elevated to Charleston Head Coach

January 10th, 2025 7:00pm

Michael Tesch Elevated to Charleston Head Coach

Charleston, W.Va. – The University of Charleston Director of Athletics, Dr. Bren Stevens announces the hiring of Michael Tesch as the new head football coach, effective immediately.

"I am pleased to announce that Mike Tesch has been selected as the new leader of our football program," stated Dr. Stevens. "Coach Tesch is exceptionally bright, passionate, articulate, and possesses a high level of emotional intelligence. His extensive experience in various coaching roles within the UC football program has prepared him to lead a talented staff and to coach highly competitive NCAA Division II student-athletes."

A native of Albany, NY, Coach Tesch brings a wealth of experience as a player and coach, including over a decade of leadership roles at several programs. With a strong foundation in offensive strategy and player development, Coach Tesch is primed to take the University of Charleston football program to the next level.

Tesch's most recent position was Offensive Coordinator at the University of Charleston, where he helped guide a high-powered offense to an 11-1 season and a national ranking of sixth in the country, a program high.

Prior to his three-year (2022-2024) tenure under Coach Sanders at the University of Charleston, Tesch spent a season at Clarion University as the Wide Receivers Coach and Offensive Coordinator. Tesch spent 2018-2021 at ASA College Brooklyn, where he fulfilled multiple roles on the football staff including Offensive Coordinator, Quarterbacks Coach, and Associate Head Coach (2021).

Tesch's 2017 season was spent at the University of Charleston, fulfilling the role of Wide Receivers Coach.

Tesch began his coaching career at his alma mater, Hudson Valley Community College. He spent 2013-2017 at Hudson Valley under the roles of Wide Receivers Coach, Offensive Coordinator, and Quarterbacks Coach.

As a player, Tesch spent his first two seasons at Hudson Valley Community College where he was named a captain in the 2011 season. He spent his next season at the University of Charleston as a wide receiver.

Tesch obtained his Master's degree in Special Education from Niagara University in 2017.

"I am thankful for the Administrations trust in me to take lead of the Football program here at the University of Charleston," said Tesch. "This institution has been a blessing to me in the opportunities they have given me to develop as a player, coach & person. Coach Sanders is one of the closest friends I have had in this profession, and I am thankful for him allowing me to be a part of the program as well as being a part of me being in this position right now. A standard of greatness has been established here at the University of Charleston, and we plan to continue to build and see the program continue to climb for new heights."

Charleston press release