The next head football coach at John Carroll University is an alumnus with elite credentials. Brian Polian ’97 has been selected as the 21st Head Football Coach for the Blue Streaks, effective immediately. In addition to leading the football program, he will continue to serve as Vice President for Athletics.
"When I approached Brian about this opportunity, I knew his exceptional leadership of the John Carroll Athletic Department and his deep commitment to our Jesuit values made his appointment as head football coach a natural next step for the University,” said President Al Miciak. “I’m confident that he will continue our program’s momentum while ensuring our student-athletes’ growth academically, personally, and competitively.”
Polian brings over 25 years of NCAA Division I coaching experience to the role. He previously served as head coach at the University of Nevada, and has been recognized by ESPN and Rivals as one of the top recruiters in the country. He is also part of a storied football family, as the son of Hall of Famer Bill Polian and brother to the Cleveland Browns' Chris Polian ’93.
"Returning to John Carroll three years ago felt like coming home. Stepping back onto the field now, feels like a dream come true,” said Polian. “I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity and for the trust placed in me to lead this prestigious program. John Carroll University and Blue Streak football are rising—driven by our mission, our people, and our shared commitment to something greater than ourselves. The next step begins today and it begins together.”
Over the past three years, Polian’s leadership has been instrumental in shaping JCU Athletics. He has successfully guided the University’s transition to the North Coast Athletic Conference (NCAC), initiated the addition of field hockey as John Carroll's 25th varsity sport (beginning varsity competition this fall), and spearheaded capital projects including the David Rastoka Athletic Hall of Fame and the turfing of Schweickert & Bracken Field.
Polian takes the helm of a program with incredible momentum. Following a historic season that included an NCAC Championship, a landmark victory over Mount Union, and JCU’s third-ever appearance in the NCAA Division III Semifinals, the foundation for success has never been stronger. With assistance from a dedicated alumni base and the Gridiron Club, Polian aims to establish JCU Football as a consistent contender for national championships.
With a deep background in teaching and coaching, Polian focuses on the unique needs of today’s students. He shares his insights on fostering meaningful connections through his book, “Coaching Generation Z: Honor the Relationships,” and via speaking engagements across the country.
“At John Carroll, athletics play an important role in forming leaders of character,” said President-elect Carolyn Noll Sorg. “Brian’s commitment to students and experience with football at the highest levels will resonate with student-athletes seeking a premier education paired with elite competition.”
A Buffalo, New York native and graduate of St. Francis High School, Polian, along with his wife, Laura, and their children, reside in Solon, Ohio.
As part of the University’s athletic leadership structure, Dejan Mladenovic ’06, John Carroll’s head men’s soccer coach, will also assume an expanded role as Senior Deputy Athletic Director, continuing in his coaching position while supporting department-wide operations. This shared leadership model, which brings together head coaches and athletic administrators, creates strong alignment and synergy across Blue Streak Athletics and positions the University’s programs for sustained excellence.
Polian will be introduced as the next head football coach during a press conference on Wednesday, January 21 at 3:00 p.m. on JCU’s campus in the Athletic, Wellness & Event Center Meeting Room, with a live stream on JCUSports.com/live.
What They're Saying About Brian Polian
Polian's leadership and coaching philosophy have earned respect across the collegiate and professional football landscape.
"This is an exciting time for John Carroll football and I am thrilled to see Brian named as the next leader of our program! Brian's exceptional experience as a head coach and coordinator at the highest levels of college football, his understanding and passion for John Carroll University, and his love and commitment to our football program will position him uniquely well to build on our tradition and lead our team to even greater heights! Congratulations to Brian and his family!"
Tom Arth '03 Quarterbacks Coach, Pittsburgh Steelers; Former JCU Head Football Coach
"As an alumni and former football player, I am extremely excited about Brian Polian being our new Head Football Coach. I personally witnessed Brian's strong leadership skills and his deep love for our school. Brian's extensive coaching background is beyond impressive, and he fully understands firsthand the tradition, pride, and commitment to excellence that has defined our program since 1920. John Carroll Football has long been built on a winning culture and has a very strong alumni base, and we are confident Coach Polian will honor that legacy while leading the program forward. We look forward to the continued success of Blue Streak Football under his leadership."
Dave Rastoka '90 Athletic Hall of Fame Benefactor; Gridiron Club Secretary
"I could not be more excited to hear the news of Brian Polian being named the next head football coach of John Carroll University. A true Man of Carroll with an incredible football pedigree! This is a huge win for the university and the football program. Brian's passion for JCU, combined with a high football IQ and his experience of building football programs at the highest levels of college football makes this a home-run hire! Go Streaks!"
Dave Ziegler '00, '07G Assistant General Manager, Tennessee Titans
"We are thankful for the current state of JCU football! Brian has been essential in positioning JCU into the new conference and providing the resources needed for the new heights we are seeking. Brian has the true JCU spirit in pursuit of winning a national championship and having him as our head coach will truly give us a chance to build another step into what our football program can ultimately become. His wealth of experience and leadership at the highest level of college football is exactly what JCU football needs. Good luck to Coach Polian as he leads our Alma mater! Go Streaks!"
Frank Ross '10 Special Teams Coordinator, Houston Texans
