McKendree Names Jason Rejfek Interim Head Coach
August 6th, 2024 3:00pm
LEBANON, Ill. – The McKendree University Athletic Department has announced the resignation of Head Football Coach Mike Babcock and the promotion of Jason Rejfek as the Interim Head Coach of the Bearcats.
Coach Babcock spent eleven seasons as the leader of the Bearcats, which he compiled an overall record of 58-52. Last year, he helped lead the program to its first-ever NCAA Division II postseason bid with the America's Crossroads Bowl. Also during the 2023 season, McKendree earned their first win over a ranked opponent with the 21-16 defeat of the University of Indianapolis.
During his tenure, he mentored Harlon Hill Trophy Candidate Turner Pullen for his record-setting campaign during the 2022 season. Along with the Harlan Hill Candidate, Babcock mentored over 130 All-GLVC athletes; including seven major awards.
McKendree alum Jason Rejfek as been named the Interim Head Coach of the Bearcats. The former standout linebacker suited up for McKendree from 2009 to 2012. He currently sits in 10th all-time for career tackles in the record book.
"I cannot express enough gratitude towards our Athletic Director, Anthony Francis, President Dobbins and the rest of the Mckendree University campus for this opportunity," said Coach Rejfek. "The lessons that I learned as a player from Coach Poelker helped to drive me into coaching so that I could influence young men's lives. Coach Babcock hired me in 2018 and the dream of working here was a reality. In being the next head coach here, I am excited to have the ability to bridge the gap of both generations and continue to enhance our student athlete experience. McKendree University is a special place because of the young men that we have in our program and the dedication that they have not only to the football program but also to the University."
