Knox College has named Adam Gonzaga as the 32nd head football coach in program history, the college announced today.
Gonzaga succeeds Aaron Willits, who stepped down in November 2025. The college conducted a national search for Willits’ replacement.
Gonzaga, who comes to Knox after serving one season as head coach at Lawrence University, officially starts Monday, Jan. 12, bringing more than three decades of college coaching experience.
“Knox Football has always been built on people, relationships, and a deep sense of commitment, and Adam Gonzaga embodies all three,” Vice President and Director of Athletics Justin Newell said. “He leads with a personal touch, investing in real relationships with student-athletes, families, and alumni in a way that builds trust and connection over time. He understands that recruiting is about more than talent and believes consistency and long-term program building are essential to honoring the proud history of Knox Football.”
Gonzaga, a graduate of Azusa Pacific University, most recently served as head football coach at Lawrence University, where the Vikings went 0-9 this past season. He has held defensive leadership roles at Stanford, the U.S. Naval Academy, Northwood University, and Saginaw Valley State, earning seven national rankings for his defenses at Lake Forest College as associate head coach and defensive coordinator, including a 10-0 regular season and NCAA Division III playoff advancement.
“I am incredibly honored for the opportunity to lead the Knox College football program,” Gonzaga said. “Knox has a strong academic tradition, a proud history, and a community that believes in developing young men the right way. I am excited to get to work, developing something special together, rooted in hard work, accountability, and an absolute commitment to excellence on and off the field.”
Gonzaga will take over a Prairie Fire program that went 2-7 overall, and 2-6 in the Midwest Conference in 2025.
Gonzaga is widely recognized for his defensive expertise, preparation, adaptability, and competitive consistency across NCAA divisions.
“Coach Adam Gonzaga was instrumental in our 2024 Midwest Conference Championship at Lake Forest College, bringing exceptional defensive acumen and preparation to our program,” Lake Forest head football coach Jim Catanzaro said.
“More importantly, he is a transformational coach who leads with authenticity, accountability, and care for his players. Knox College is gaining a tremendous leader and educator who will positively impact their football program and campus community. He will raise the Prairie Fire stock in the Midwest Conference.”
