Thurston Named New Redstorm Football Coach

University of Rio Grande has announced a coaching change, with Mark Thurston taking over as head coach for the 2025 season. 

The move comes as Rio made the decision to part ways with Coach Quincy Wilson. To respect the privacy of all parties involved, Rio will not be providing details on the separation. 

“Our focus remains on supporting our athletes and continuing to move forward with the launch of football next fall,” said Rio President, Ryan Smith. 

Thurston was originally brought to Rio this summer to serve as Defensive Coordinator. The Miami native is a former West Virginia Mountaineer, who played rush linebacker and was a three-year letter winner. He brings an impressive resume, having served in various defensive coaching and recruiting roles at Iowa State, Toledo, Norfolk State, and Lake Erie College. 

Thurston also has coaching experience at the high school level, serving as the defensive line and special teams coach at Miami Norland High School.He also spent one season in the same roles with the semi-pro West Virginia Wham! of the Mid-Ohio Valley League. 

It was announced in the spring that after a 75-year break, Rio would bring football, along with marching band, to campus. The addition of the two programs is poised to invigorate campus life, with an anticipated initial influx of 150-200 students, with more growth projected in the coming years. The Redstorm are slated to play in the NAIA’s Appalachian Athletic Conference.