Philadelphia, December 13, 2025
The University of Pennsylvania has appointed Rick Santos as the head football coach for the Quakers, signaling a new era for the program. With an impressive record at the University of New Hampshire and extensive experience in coaching and playing, Santos aims to raise Penn’s football profile within the Ivy League. His formal introduction is set for a press conference in December, with expectations of significant improvements in player development and community engagement.
Rick Santos Takes the Helm as Head Football Coach at University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, PA – The University of Pennsylvania has appointed Rick Santos as the head football coach for the Quakers, ushering in a new chapter for the program. With a successful background as both a player and coach, Santos aims to elevate Penn’s football status in the competitive Ivy League landscape.
Significant Coaching Achievements
Santos arrives at Penn after completing a notable five-year tenure as head coach at the University of New Hampshire (UNH), where he achieved a 37–24 overall record and marked an 28–12 record within the Coastal Athletic Association (CAA). His leadership facilitated NCAA FCS Playoff appearances in 2022, 2024, and 2025, including a noteworthy CAA title in 2022 that propelled his team into the second round of the playoffs. Santos’s earlier career included selection as the 2006 Walter Payton Award winner, highlighting his skills as one of the top offensive players in the nation.
Transitioning to Penn Football
The transition from UNH was confirmed by the university’s Director of Athletics, who praised Santos’s contributions to the Wildcats as they now begin the search for a new head coach. Santos will formally introduce himself to the Penn community in a press conference scheduled for December 16, taking place in the Li Family Auditorium at Franklin Field, which will also be streamed live.
Building on a Successful Foundation
Santos’s arrival is timely, as the Quakers aim for excellence. Following an impactful coaching journey where he held multiple roles at UNH, including associate head coach and interim head coach, he is expected to implement strategies that foster not just wins but also player development and community engagement.
Anticipated Impact on Pennsylvania College Athletics
Rick Santos is anticipated to have a significant impact on the Pennsylvania college athletics scene. His ability to lead the Quakers towards Ivy League championships signifies a potential shift in the competitive dynamics of college football in the Philadelphia region. Santos’s focus will be on enhancing the athletic program’s visibility and competitive prowess, a goal that aligns with the university’s commitment to athletic excellence.
Local Community and Athletic Growth
The University of Pennsylvania’s investment in collegiate athletics reflects a broader trend in Philadelphia, where local programs and private investment collaborate to enhance the sports landscape. As Santos steps into his role, community leaders and sports advocates are watching closely, hoping that the Quakers can become a beacon of success in college football, fostering local pride and economic benefits.
Conclusion
With Rick Santos at the forefront, the University of Pennsylvania’s football program is poised for promising growth. His leadership is expected to strengthen not only the team’s presence but also to amplify the role of college athletics in Philadelphia. As the community rallies behind the new coach, there is excitement about the potential for renewed success on the field.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Rick Santos?
Rick Santos is a former standout quarterback and recent head coach at the University of New Hampshire (UNH). He has been appointed as the new head football coach at the University of Pennsylvania.
What are Rick Santos’s coaching achievements?
Over five seasons as head coach at UNH, Santos compiled a 37–24 overall record, including a 28–12 mark in the Coastal Athletic Association (CAA). Under his leadership, the Wildcats secured NCAA FCS Playoff berths in 2022, 2024, and 2025.
When will Rick Santos be introduced at Penn?
Santos is scheduled to be formally introduced to the Penn community on Tuesday, December 16, at a press conference in the Li Family Auditorium within the Coulson Family Training Complex at Franklin Field. The event will be streamed live on the Penn Sports Network.
What is Rick Santos’s background?
Rick Santos, a native of Bellingham, Massachusetts, graduated from UNH in 2008 with a bachelor’s degree in kinesiology. After a brief stint with the Kansas City Chiefs, he played four seasons in the Canadian Football League, winning two Grey Cup titles. Santos’s coaching career at UNH began in 2013, and he has held various positions, including wide receivers coach, associate head coach, and interim head coach, before assuming the role of head coach in 2022.
What are the expectations for Rick Santos at Penn?
Alanna Wren, the T. Gibbs Kane, Jr. W’69 Director of Athletics and Recreation at Penn, expressed confidence in Santos’s ability to lead the Quakers to Ivy League championships and postseason appearances. Santos’s proven track record and leadership qualities are expected to elevate Penn’s football program to new heights.
Key Features of Rick Santos’s Appointment
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coaching Record at UNH | 37–24 overall, 28–12 in CAA, three NCAA FCS Playoff appearances (2022, 2024, 2025) |
| Coaching Positions at UNH | Wide receivers coach (2013–2015), Associate head coach & quarterbacks coach (2019–2021), Interim head coach (2019), Head coach (2022–2025) |
| Playing Career | Quarterback at UNH (2004–2007), 2006 Walter Payton Award winner, two-time Grey Cup champion in CFL |
| Introduction at Penn | Press conference on December 16, 2025, at Franklin Field, streamed live on Penn Sports Network |
| Expectations at Penn | Lead Quakers to Ivy League championships and postseason appearances |
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