Anderson hires new coach

Anderson has announced the hiring of Bobby Ladner as head football coach. Ladner replaces Jeff Judge, who guided the Ravens from 2003-2011. Ladner comes to Anderson from Concordia-Selma, where he served as assistant football coach and recruiting coordinator. Prior to his time at Concordia-Selma, Ladner served as assistant head coach, defensive coordinator and recruiting coordinator at Olivet Nazarene.

“We are very excited to bring to the Raven football program a young, talented leader in Coach Bobby Ladner," said James L. Edwards, president of Anderson. “At first meeting Bobby impressed us as one who understands and is deeply committed to our values and has the energy, intellect, experience and vision to lead our program to success. We are very excited to welcome him to Anderson University and to Raven football.”

“I'm excited to have coach Ladner leading our football program,” said athletic director Marcie Taylor. “Bobby brings valuable experience and knowledge, along with enthusiasm and a commitment to creating a top notch football program with an environment that will motivate our student-athletes to excel in the classroom, on the football field and in their daily lives.”

Prior to working at Olivet Nazarene, Ladner served as a recruiting coordinator, defensive coordinator, and assistant athletic director at Belhaven in Jackson, Miss. from 2004-09.  In addition to his extensive coaching duties, Ladner taught Wellness and Fitness as well as strength and conditioning classes at Olivet Nazarene.

Ladner has produced 31 all-conference players during his career as well as three NFL players and Belhaven won a conference championship in 2006. He has also worked with the Chicago Bears during training camp while at Olivet Nazarene and been the chair of the Belhaven Hall of Fame committee.

Ladner graduated from Belhaven in 2003 with a bachelor's degree in sports administration/nutrition. He earned his master's in management and leadership from Liberty in 2009.

After being recruited to Louisiana State as a fullback in high school, Ladner transferred to Belhaven, where he was a four-year letterman on the football team. He was named all-conference three times (2001-03) as well as All-American honorable mention after the 2003 season. He was a team captain as a senior and is the school’s all-time sack leader (36) and second in career tackles (252).

"It truly is a blessing and honor to be chosen to lead the Anderson University football program,” said Bobby Ladner.  “It is a joy to be associated with an institution that strives to impact lives every day. My wife, Tori and I are excited for the opportunity to become a part of the Anderson University family. The Anderson community is a special place with outstanding people and we are thankful to be a part of that. I would like to thank Dr. Edwards, Dr. Baker, and Marcie Taylor for their leadership and vision for the institution. I also would like to thank the search committee, our players, coaches and the entire Anderson family for believing in me and giving me this opportunity."