Thurston named new Redstorm football coach

The University of Rio Grande has announced a change to the football coaching staff, with Mark Thurston taking over as head coach for the 2025 season.

The move comes as the school has made the decision to part ways with former head coach Quincy Wilson. To respect the privacy of all parties involved, Rio will not be providing details on the separation.

“Our focus remains on supporting our athletes and continuing to move forward with the launch of football next fall,” said Rio President, Ryan Smith.

Thurston was originally brought to Rio Grande in July to serve as the program’s defensive coordinator. The Miami, Fla. native was a three-year letter winner at West Virginia University, where he played rush linebacker. He brings an impressive résumé, having served in various defensive coaching and recruiting roles at Iowa State University, the University of Toledo, Norfolk State University and Lake Erie College.

Thurston also has coaching experience at the high school level, serving as the defensive line and special teams coach at Miami Norland High School. He also spent one season in the same roles with the semi-pro West Virginia Wham! of the Mid-Ohio Valley League.

It was announced in the spring that, after a 75-year break, Rio Grande would bring football, along with marching band, back to campus. The addition of the two programs is poised to invigorate campus life, with an anticipated initial influx of 150-200 students, with more growth projected in the coming years.

The Redstorm are slated to play in the NAIA’s Appalachian Athletic Conference.

Nestled in the rolling hills of southeastern Ohio, Rio stands as a beacon of accessible and affordable education. Our main campus is a haven for learning, innovation, and technology, offering students the security and charm of a small-town environment. With more than 60 diverse programs to choose from, Rio empowers students to pursue associate, bachelor, and master degrees, along with certificate programs. Our commitment extends to four regional centers — Jackson, McArthur, Meigs and Pike — dedicated to enriching their communities by providing quality education and fostering a robust workforce. At the core of our institution are passionate faculty members who serve as both educators and mentors, devoted to the academic and personal growth of each student. Rio's academically challenging programs are complemented by a wealth of extracurricular opportunities, creating a holistic educational experience.

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