UNK Athletics: Four Coaches Sign Contract Extensions
Kearney, Neb. – Four Nebraska Kearney head coaches recently signed contract extensions that will have them leading the Lopers for the next four years.
Head football coach Ryan Held (second season), head wrestling coach Dalton Jensen (ninth season), head soccer coach Rob Breton (third season), and head volleyball coach Rick Squiers (26th season) are now each signed through December, 31, 2028.
"At moments like this, you realize who you can count on and who is committed to UNK, our alums, and our student-athletes. I would put our entire coaching staff up against any coaching staff in the nation. These four reflect the values we have become accustomed to at UNK, such as hard work, doing the right thing, and always working towards developing and bringing out the best in their players," said UNK Atheltic Director Dr. Marc. Bauer. "These new multi-year contract extensions represent a long-term commitment, stability, and investment needed to continue these programs' upward trajectory, which directly impacts our fan base, community, and the University."
Held has led the Loper football program the past two falls, picking up wins over longtime rival Chadron State and national power Northwest Missouri State this past season. He has coached 15 All-MIAA players and increased the program's recruiting presence in Lincoln and Omaha metro areas. Finally, the team received the 2023 UNK Athletic Men's Service Award (1,220 hours).
"I'm very thankful to Chancellor Bicak and Dr. Marc Bauer for my contract extension. It means a lot to my family and my coaches," said Held. "We're excited about where we are at but are looking forward to continuing to build the program the right way helping our players graduate and become their best versions on and off the field."
Jensen leads one of college wrestling's premier programs as the Lopers are an annual Division II national title contender. UNK won the 2022 National Championship, was runner-up in 2021, third in 2024, and currently ranked fifth. Jensen has coached 43 All-Americans, including four national champs and seven national runners-up.
"I'm grateful for Marc and the University for trusting my staff and I to continue to lead this historic program. Kearney is a special place that has phenomenal support for our student-athletes to help them achieve success both on and off the mat," said Jensen.
On the pitch, Breton has helped rebuild Loper soccer over the past three falls, culminating with eight wins and a MIAA Tournament berth this fall. The team has its second-ever All-Region selection, and third-ever winning campaign, and it has set numerous game and season records during his brief tenure.
"I am very excited to be staying with the Lopers for three more seasons. Kearney has become a home to me, and I am very grateful for my opportunity to be here," said Breton. "Thank you, Dr. Bauer, for trusting me with this program and these ladies, as well as the community of Kearney for all the support. We have achieved a lot during my time here, and I am looking forward to all we are going to achieve as we continue to work together!"
Finally, Squiers has amassed a 788-111 record (.877-win pct.) since taking over the reins of Loper volleyball in 1999. The program has made 25 consecutive NCAA Tournaments, twice been Nationals Runner Up, and won 17 regular season league titles, to name a few of UNK's achievements in the past quarter century.
"Thank you to Dr. Bauer, Jon Watts, and Dr. Bicek for their continued support and commitment to Loper volleyball. It remains my honor to serve as head coach. This is truly a special place," said Squiers.
The 2024 NCAA Division II Moratorium – no practice or games – runs from Dec. 23-29 with UNK beginning spring semester classes on Jan. 21.