The renewed energy John McMenamin brought to the Northwest Missouri State sideline propelled the Bearcats back to the postseason, and people around the country took notice.
The American Football Coaches Association named McMenamin Region 3 Coach of the Year. He's the ninth Northwest head coach to earn the award.
The Bearcats posted a 9-3 mark, won a share of the program's 32nd MIAA title, and reached the NCAA Division II Playoffs in the first season under McMenamin. It was a quick rebound after the team missed the postseason two years in a row.
Northwest also saw a resurgence offensively with an MIAA-leading rushing attack that went for 243 yards per game and averaging 31.7 points per game. The Bearcats scored 34 or more points seven times this fall, something they achieved just three times in 2024.
McMenamin was also named MIAA Coach of the Year last week. He owns a 16-7 career record after one season with Wayne State and one with Northwest.
Northwest's AFCA Region Coach of the Year Awards
John McMenamin - 2025
Adam Dorrel - 2016
Mel Tjeerdsma - 2008
Mel Tjeerdsma - 2006
Mel Tjeerdsma - 2000
Mel Tjeerdsma - 1999
Mel Tjeerdsma - 1998
Mel Tjeerdsma - 1997
Mel Tjeerdsma - 1996
