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| Kalamazoo athletics file photo by Kimberly Moss |
John Krajacic, a 2004 graduate of Kalamazoo, has been named the next head football coach at his alma mater following a national search.
Krajacic steps into the head coaching role with more than two decades of experience with the Kalamazoo College football program, first as a student-athlete and then as a coach in multiple roles since 2008. Most recently, he served as the Hornets' associate head coach, co-offensive coordinator and offensive line coach. Krajacic takes over for Jamie Zorbo, who announced in October that he was stepping down as head football coach to fully focus on his concurrent position as director of athletics.
"John's impact on our football program over the past 18 years cannot be overstated," said Jamie Zorbo, director of athletics. "He understands what makes Kalamazoo College special, he cares deeply about our student-athletes and he has played an integral role in our program's growth and progress. I am thrilled that John emerged as the top candidate to take over as head coach and am excited for the future of Hornet Football under his leadership."
As offensive coordinator since 2016, Krajacic was responsible for the overall structure and philosophy of the Hornets' offense. Under his leadership, Kalamazoo produced the second-highest scoring season in program history in 2023 and ranked among the national leaders (15th) in passing offense during the 2025 season.
Krajacic has also played a central role in recruiting and roster development. Since becoming recruiting coordinator in 2009, he has helped grow the program from 63 student-athletes to 107, including overseeing the largest incoming recruiting classes in recent program history. His collaborative work with campus partners has emphasized academic fit, campus engagement, and NCAA compliance throughout the recruiting process.
Krajacic joined the Kalamazoo coaching staff in 2008 as a graduate assistant defensive line coach after spending one season as a junior varsity defensive line coach at Grand Rapids Catholic Central High School. He moved into a full-time role with the Hornets in 2009 and, as the program's offensive line coach, oversaw five of the top 10 single-game rushing performances in Kalamazoo football history.
In addition to his on-field responsibilities, Krajacic has been deeply involved in alumni engagement and student-athlete development. He coordinates the program's alumni mentor initiative, connecting current players with football alumni to support career readiness and professional networking.
A 2004 Kalamazoo College graduate, Krajacic earned his Bachelor of Arts degree in business and economics and was a four-year letter winner as a student-athlete. He has been a member of the American Football Coaches Association since 2008 and served on the inaugural NCAA Coaches Connect Committee, which brings NCAA Division III football coaches together with NCAA representatives to increase communication, engagement and education.
"I am sincerely honored to be given this opportunity to be the head football coach at Kalamazoo College," Krajacic said. "Over the last 18 seasons, Coach Zorbo has built a robust culture that has transformed student-athletes into accomplished and successful adults. I look forward to continuing this proud tradition and developing the next generation of leaders. I am grateful to Coach Tim Rogers for bringing me into the Hornet Football family 25 years ago, and to Coaches Van Nickert and Brian Coon for their mentorship and guidance in my development."
Krajacic will assume the role Jan. 1 as the program looks ahead to the upcoming season.