Mark Krzykowski has been named head football coach at Carroll University, announced Joe Baker, Director of Athletics.

The announcement comes following a two-month search that produced more than 125 applicants from coast to coast.

"We are fortunate and very happy that Coach Krzykowski has agreed to become our head football coach," said Baker. "We believe he is the right person to mentor our student-athletes and that our football program will become even more competitive in the Midwest Conference and across NCAA Division III. He has the full support of our student-athletes and is well respected campus-wide."

Krzykowski was a three-year standout for the Pioneers football team after transferring from the University of Wisconsin.

After graduating from Carroll in 1994, Krzykowski enjoyed a very successful high school coaching career before embarking on a five-year stint on the staff at Elmhurst College.

In 2006, Krzykowski returned to his alma mater as the defensive coordinator, then added the title of assistant head coach prior to the 2008 season. He has been the Pioneers interim head coach since Dec. 7, 2010.

At Carroll, Krzykowski's defense has ranked among the best in the Midwest Conference during his five years as defensive coordinator. The Pioneers finished in the top three in total defense every season, ranking first in 2007, 2008 and 2010.

"It is a privilege and an honor to be chosen as the next head football coach at Carroll University. Most coaches aspire to one day become a head coach. For me to be named head coach at the place I studied and played makes it that much more special," said Krzykowski. "I look forward to working with the student-athletes and continuing the winning tradition at Carroll."

Krzykowski is the 29th head coach in the 116-year history of the Pioneer football program.

The Pioneers will open the 2011 season on Saturday, Sept. 3, when they host Lakeland College at 1 p.m.