WACO, Texas – Coe College Associate Head Coach & Defensive Coordinator Cody Baethke was named the American Football Coaches Association DIII Assistant Coach of the Year on Thursday afternoon in the organization's yearly coaching awards release. Baethke, who joined the staff in 2018 from Central College after four years as an assistant, has helped evolve the Coe defense into one of the top units in the country year in and year out. His Coe defensive units have ranked in the top 40 in DIII in the last three seasons, including a top 10-ranked defense in 2023. Baethke's defense unit was once again the driving force in 2024, helping Coe to its second straight NCAA playoff appearance. An active member of the AFCA, Coach Baethke contributes as a member of the AFCA Program Committee, introducing speakers at the annual coaches convention. Additionally, Baethke organizes several team volunteer activities and has participated in community events such as America Reads, Special Olympics and Planting Forward through Mercy Medical and St. Lukes Hospital. Last summer, Baethke helped lead the Coe football program's first-ever overseas trip to Scotland where players and families had the opportunity to experience the culture and history while playing against a local team. Baethke will be honored Sunday, January 12 during the 2025 AFCA Convention in Charlotte, North Carolina where he will receive a plaque commemorating the recognition. 
 
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