Western Oregon Hires Former NFL DT as New Defensive Line Coach

Kimo von Oelhoffen, a native of Kaunakakai, Hawaii, was drafted 162nd in the sixth round of the 1994 NFL Draft by the Cincinnati Bengals.

Kimo von Oelhoffen has been the co-Defensive Coordinator at Richland High School in Washington since 2011. The Bombers' defense was second in the state last season for fewest points allowed. Photo: WOU Athletics

(MONMOUTH, Ore. ) - The Western Oregon University football team announced the hiring of Kimo von Oelhoffen as its new Defensive Line coach.

Von Oelhoffen brings 15 years of NFL playing experience to WOU. He was a member of the 2005 Pittsburgh Steelers, which won Super Bowl XL. Von Oelhoffen, appeared in over 230 NFL games, starting in over 180. He was an alternate for the Pro Bowl during his career. He has played under notable names Dick Lebeau, Bill Cowher, Eric Mangini and Andy Reid.

"I was fortunate to have some great mentors," von Oelhoffen said. "They taught me so many things. I think things that I learned help make young men great students and great citizens. Along with that came some great technique and skill development."

Von Oelhoffen, a native of Kaunakakai, Hawaii, was drafted 162nd in the sixth round of the 1994 NFL Draft by the Cincinnati Bengals. He also played for the New York Jets and the Philadelphia Eagles during his career. He racked up 173 tackles in the NFL, along with 26.5 sacks and two forced fumbles.

"I've been watching Western Oregon and seeing what a great defense they have," von Oelhoffen said. "I really want to put what I've learned to use and apply that knowledge, and just give back as much as I can."

Von Oelhoffen started his collegiate career at the University of Hawaii, before finishing at Boise State University. The talented defensive tackle played only one year of football in high school.

This will be von Oelhoffen's first college coaching job. He has been the co-Defensive Coordinator at Richland High School in Washington since 2011. The Bombers' defense was second in the state last season for fewest points allowed.

"Kimo has a phenomenal resume with phenomenal experience," WOU Head Coach Arne Ferguson said. "His amount of knowledge and tremendous technique will only help our guys get better. I really think he is going to help our whole program develop."

The Wolves open the 2014 schedule at NCAA FCS opponent Portland State on Sept. 6. The first of four home games at McArthur Field is against Central Washington on Sept. 20. All four home games will be Great Northwest Athletic Conference contests. Season tickets will be available for purchase on WOUWolves.com on July 1. Single game tickets will go on sale on Aug. 1.

Source: WOU Athletics