Bethel University is promoting defensive coordinator Mike McElroy to head coach, the program has announced.
Bethel is a Division III school in Arden Hills, Minn., near the Twin Cities. The Royals compete in the Minnesota Intercollegiate Athletic Conference.
McElroy replaces Steve Johnson, who retired last fall. He has been with the program since 2017.
"I'm thrilled that Mike McElroy will be the next head coach of the Bethel football program,” AD Greg Peterson said. “During the process, Mike set himself apart with his authentic faith and plan for transformation in the lives of the young men in the program, his recruiting plan and evidence of recruiting at a high level, and his experience leading one of the top defenses in the country that has been a catalyst for three straight NCAA playoff experiences, including an Elite Eight in 2022, and Bethel's sixth MIAC championship. Mike is a steady and strong leader who cares deeply about the development of the young men he coaches. I'm so excited for his passion to combine athletic excellence and Kingdom impact."
Bethel ranked second nationally in red zone defense in 2023, permitting scores on only 42.3 percent of opportunities, while placing fifth with 21 interceptions and seventh with 31 takeaways. The Royals also led the MIAC in nine defensive categories.
McElroy played for Jerry Kill at Southern Illinois and GA'd for him at Minnesota. Prior to Bethel, he served as the defensive coordinator for Concordia-St. Paul, a nearby Division II school.
In addition to landing his first head coaching job, McElroy and his wife Austyn will welcome their third son next month.
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