AMHERST, Mass. — Joe Harasymiak, who served as the defensive coordinator at Rutgers, has been appointed as the head coach for the University of Massachusetts football team. This program has faced challenges since its shift to the Football Bowl Subdivision in 2012, struggling to secure more than four wins in any given season.

As UMass prepares to enter the Mid-American Conference this coming July, Harasymiak’s appointment marks a new chapter for the Minutemen, who have operated as independents for the past nine seasons. He was formally introduced during a press conference held on Friday.

Before joining UMass, Harasymiak accumulated significant experience, having spent four seasons as the co-defensive coordinator and defensive backs coach at Minnesota. His previous role as head coach at Maine was particularly noteworthy during the 2018 season, when he earned the title of Football Championship Subdivision coach of the year. Under his leadership, the Black Bears achieved an impressive 10-4 record and advanced to the national semifinals.

Harasymiak takes over the program from Don Brown, who was let go last month after a tough tenure that resulted in a 6-28 record over three seasons. Notably, Brown also held the head coach position from 2004 to 2008, during a time when UMass was competing in the FCS.

In their most recent season, the Minutemen concluded with a disappointing 2-10 record, with both victories coming from matches against FCS opponents. Harasymiak’s arrival could signify a noteworthy turning point for the team as they seek to improve their performance and establish a stronger presence within the Mid-American Conference.