Mickey Iliano Returns to Spartan Football Coaching Staff

CLEVELAND – Case Western Reserve University football Head Coach Greg Debeljak has announced the return of Mickey Iliano as the Spartans' offensive line coach.

Iliano replaces Mike Murphey, who accepted the head coaching position at nearby Revere High School earlier this month.

"Coach Murphey did an outstanding job as our offensive line coach in 2012, and we are happy for the opportunity he has at Revere," said Debeljak. "We know he will do a fine job."

No stranger to the Spartans, Iliano has coached with Debeljak since the 1994 season. He roamed the sidelines at Case Field from 2001 to 2011 before taking the 2012 season off due to health reasons.

Prior to arriving in University Circle, Iliano was an assistant at John Carroll University (1994-2000), University School (1990-93) and Beachwood High School (1981-89). He is a 1975 graduate of Collinwood High School and a 1980 graduate of the University of Dubuque (Iowa). At Dubuque, he captained both the football and baseball teams, and the football team made the NCAA Division III postseason his senior year.

"We're excited to have coach Mick back on the staff," noted Debeljak. "Our student-athletes really respect him and respond well to him. He has been with us for a long time, and it's great to see him back in good health and ready to coach again."

The Spartans finished the 2012 season at 6-4 overall and 2-1 in the University Athletic Association. Over the last six seasons, Case Western Reserve football has produced an overall record of 54-10 with four UAA Championships (2007-09, '11) and three NCAA Playoff berths (2007-09).