It was announced on Wednesday by University of Redlands Director of Athletics Jeff Martinez that Charles "Charlie" Roche has been named the Bulldogs' Offensive Coordinator and Recruiting Coordinator, effective immediately.
"I look forward to working with a group of very talented, intelligent, and hard-working players," stated Roche. "My expectations are that we continue the proud tradition of Bulldog football, build on the success of previous teams, and win the close games."
"I'm excited to work for a university that has a proud tradition in academics and athletics, while having the opportunity to work with President Appleton, Jeff Martinez, and Coach Maynard," he added.
Roche joins the program after a three-year stint with College of the Siskiyous (COS) in Northern California, serving as the Eagles' offensive coordinator, academic advisor, and interim head track & field coach. During his tenure, his squads established 27 new offensive school records while amassing 441 offensive yards per game over 30 contests.
"I am struck by the total commitment Coach Roche has made to the student-athletes at each of his coaching stops," commented Head Coach Mike Maynard. "His record of offensive excellence combined with his astounding graduation rate impresses me a great deal."
Prior to coaching at COS, Roche also gained experience at San Jose State University for four years. He played a significant role in the team's nationally-ranked offense, which included the 17th-best passing offense in Division I during the 2003 campaign.
"Although most of Coach Roche's experience stems from the Offensive Line, he has consummate knowledge of every offensive position and the versatility to coach each one. His experience of calling plays against Division I heavyweights like USC, Ohio State and Florida has prepared him well to be successful at Redlands," Maynard said.
In addition, Roche holds acclaim to having coached 17 players who eventually moved on to the National Football League (NFL), including quarterback Tony Romo of the Dallas Cowboys.
As a student, Roche attended the College of the Siskiyous and completed his Associate of Arts in 1994. He gained numerous all-conference accolades both in football and track & field while serving as the football team captain during his second season. He later graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from Eastern Illinois University in 1997. Roche continued his athletic career as a Panther, earning all-conference academic honors as well as all-conference football and track & field plaudits.
Recently, Roche earned his Master of Science in Exercise Science/Health Promotion with an emphasis on Fitness and Wellness from California University of Pennsylvania.
Roche and his wife, Michelle, are settling in Southern California in preparation for the fast-approaching Bulldog football season that kicks off at home with "Rah Rah Redlands" on September 18 at 7 p.m. in Ted Runner Stadium.