Trevor McConnell finished his first season on the Valpo football coaching staff in 2023, serving as running backs coach.

McConnell instructed Ryan Mann, who earned All-PFL Honorable Mention and Academic All-PFL Second Team before garnering the team’s Offensive Player of the Year Award. Mann ranked 10^th in the PFL in rushing at 48.7 yards per game, accruing 487 rushing yards on 106 carries, scoring three rushing touchdowns and adding 85 receiving yards on nine catches including one receiving TD.

McConnell was a team captain and five-year quarterback at Ohio Northern University in Ada, Ohio, where he graduated in May 2022 with a degree in sports management and public relations.

McConnell spent the final four weeks of his senior season as a quarterback player-coach due to an injury. He helped a senior QB earn first-team all-conference accolades. McConnell also served as Ohio Northern football’s director of multi-media and recruiting assistant.

What They’re Saying About Trevor McConnell

Dean Paul, Ohio Northern Head Coach: “Starting during the recruiting process, Trevor had an uncommon presence about him. He possessed exceptional communication skills and a confident but not arrogant way about him. As a player in our program, he earned the players’ trust with his work ethic, football IQ and ability to connect. His unselfish attitude and vision for greatness allowed him to lead and hold teammates accountable. He was very involved in the recruiting process as a player, hosting prospective students and their families, and even evaluating video. I’m confident he will make a positive impact at Valparaiso.”

Aaron Krepps, Washington & Jefferson Assistant Head Coach / Offensive Coordinator: “I thoroughly enjoyed my time coaching Trevor at Ohio Northern University. He was extremely coachable and really worked hard on mastering the techniques being taught. He was a smart QB; it was like having another coach on the field. I expect him to be very successful in the coaching profession.”

Devin Russell, Davenport University Offensive Coordinator: “I am excited to watch as Trevor begins his coaching journey. Trevor did a great job in our time together at Ohio Northern and has all the characteristics to make a great coach. Trevor has the ability to learn quickly and a football knowledge that is beyond his years. I am looking forward to watching the impact he has on Valpo football moving forward.”

Jim Cordle, Ohio Northern Offensive Coordinator: “I am excited for Trevor as he starts his coaching career. Trevor has a high football IQ, but more importantly a passion to teach the game. He has been preparing for this opportunity during his playing career. He gained valuable experience in multiple roles in the last year. He will be a great asset to the staff at Valparaiso.”