Rio Grande, Ohio – The University of Rio Grande has announced a change to the football
coaching staff, with Mark Thurston taking over as head coach for the 2025 season.
The move comes as the school has made the decision to part ways with former head 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 Grande in July to serve as the program’s defensive
coordinator. The Miami, Fla. native was a three-year letter winner at West Virginia University,
where he played rush linebacker. He brings an impressive resume, having served in various
defensive coaching and recruiting roles at Iowa State University, the University of Toledo,
Norfolk State University 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 Grande would bring football,
along with marching band, back 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.