Matthew Rahn Named 2024 NJCAA DIII Football Coach of the Year
Charlotte, NC – At the front of a college football empire is a head coach who has led an unstoppable team that has yet to succumb to failure. After another incredible season, Matthew Rahn of the College of DuPage has been named the 2024 NJCAA DIII Football Coach of the Year.
Since the beginning of Division III NJCAA Football, Rahn has brought the Chaparrals to the highest level of victory, leading them to four consecutive national championship titles. Over the last four years, DuPage has registered a record of 40-6, losing only two games in the last two years. In 2024, the Chaparrals finished the season 11-1 while leading the nation in 20 different categories.
Notably, Rahn's leadership resulted in DuPage leading the nation in points per game (50.9), yards per game (469.3), passing touchdowns (39) and rushing touchdowns (34). They were second in the nation in rushing yards (1867) and third in sacks (47). DuPage never waivered from the No. 1 spot in national rankings all season long.
"A coach of the year award is a team award. I firmly believe that we have the best coaching staff in junior college football," stated Rahn. "We work well together. Of course, you have to have great kids who buy-in to the program. We're very fortunate to have those two groups that work hard each day at becoming better coaches and players.''
The 2024 National Championship showcased another strong performance for the Chaparrals. In the title game, DuPage faced off against No. 2 Louisburg College. Under Rahn's coaching staff and leadership, the Chaparrals set the tone of the game in the first quarter. They took control from the first drive, scoring a touchdown to give them a 7-0 lead. The special team's unit continued to do what they have done all year long as they blocked a field goal attempt by the Hurricanes. Not slowing down the entire game, DuPage closed out the championship with a score of 31-14 to give them their fourth title in as many years.
Taking home the 2024 Coach of the Year award, Rahn has now earned three NJCAA Coach of the Year awards over the last four years. Between his coaching style and tangible success, Rahn will be seeing more awards in his future as DuPage continues to hone their methods and make their mark as an unstoppable powerhouse program.
