Jan. 6, 2003

University of Illinois head football coach Ron Turner announced Monday the hiring of Dan Roushar, former offensive coordinator at Northern Illinois, as Illini running backs coach. Roushar returns to Illinois after serving as an assistant to Lou Tepper in 1995-96.

"We are very excited to have Dan (Roushar) join our staff," Turner said. "He has done a great job at Northern Illinois and I have been very impressed with their offense. Dan will be able to aid our young backfield in developing into their full potential. His experience will give us a big boost in the running game."

For the last five seasons, Roushar has run the NIU offense, which set a school record for total yards in 2000 and ranked 12th nationally in rushing offense with 228.1 yards per game. Since 1999, the Huskies have produced 1,000-yard rushers in William Andrews in 1999 (1,127), Thomas Hammock in 2000-01 (1,083 & 1,096) and the nation's second-leading rusher, Michael Turner, in 2002 (1,702). Roushar, 42, also coached the offensive line interior in addition to his coordinator duties.

"I am thrilled to be joining Coach (Ron) Turner and this outstanding staff," Roushar said. "I look forward to helping this program continue its offensive excellence."

In 1995-96, Roushar was on staff in Champaign beginning as quarterbacks coach during the 1995 season and then moving to offensive tackles and tight ends in 1996.

Roushar began his career at Butler University. During his time at Butler, the squad was 42-17-4, capturing five conference titles and two Division II playoff appearances. He spent three seasons working with the offensive backfield before his promotion to offensive coordinator, a position he held for three more years.

In 1993 and '94, Roushar enjoyed stints at the University of Rhode Island and Ball State, respectively. He worked opposite Illinois safeties coach Mike Mallory while at URI. As offensive coordinator at Ball State, Roushar's offense featured a 1,000-yard rusher in Tony Nibbs (1,210) and threw a school-record 18 touchdown passes.

Roushar is a 1985 graduate of Northern Illinois where he earned a bachelor of science degree in physical education. He was a two-time letterwinner under Hall of Fame coach Bill Mallory. Roushar is married to the former Patti Cahill of Sutton, Mass., and has three daughters Marissa (5), Mallory (4) and Maura (8 mo.).