Conference

Loretto, PA -- Saint Francis University, Director of the Athletics Bob Krimmel and head football coach Chris Villarrial named former Mercyhurst assistant Eric Long offensive coordinator.

“We are very proud to announce the addition of Eric to our staff,” Villarrial said. “He is not just a solid offensive mind but also a first-class person, which is exactly the people we look for here at Saint Francis.”

Long had worked as the Lakers' offensive coordinator since January 2008, while serving as the positions coach the wide receivers and tight ends. In 2010, Long also took on the role of recruiting coordinator at Mercyhurst. Prior to his role as offensive coordinator with the Lakers, Long served as the running backs and tight ends coach in his first season with Mercyhurst. Additionally, he was the Lakers' academic coordinator since 2007.

“My family and I are excited to join the Saint Francis athletic family,” Long said. “We are looking to bring excitement and victories to the Red Flash program. I want to thank Mr. Krimmel and Coach Villarrial for giving me the opportunity to help influence the next phase of Saint Francis football.”

Long takes over an offense that ranked third in the Northeast Conference a season ago in total offense and fourth in scoring offensive. SFU led the NEC in red zone efficiency a season ago scoring 30 times on 35 trips inside opponents 20 yard line. The Flash offense posted school records last season for rushing yards, points and touchdowns. Kyle Harbridge (Easton, Pa./Easton Area) headlines the returning offensive weapons for Saint Francis, he ranked sixth nationally in rushing a season ago and returns as the NEC active leader in kickoff returns for touchdown, yards per carry and yards per touch.