Leiss, Podzimek join Tabor Football Coaching Staff

Written by Hillsboro Free Press Wednesday, 28 March 2007 06:22

"Through a lot of prayer and checking with references," said head coach Mike Gottsch, "these guys surfaced as two who were highly capable and qualified, and who were exactly what we were looking for at Tabor. I'm more than satisfied with these two guys and what they bring to the table for us."

Leiss, originally from Southern California, played college football at Moorpark (Calif.) College and Southern Utah State University, Cedar City, Utah. He began his college coaching career at Ottawa (Kan.) University in 1998 where he served as running back coach. During the three years he was at Ottawa, the offense was consistently in the top five in the nation. The Braves were KCAC champions in 2000.

From Ottawa, Leiss went on to Emporia (Kan.) State University and served as defensive line coach, kickers coach and recruiting coordinator. While he was there, ESU played in the Mineral Water Bowl and was the 2003 MIAA co-champion.

"I would like to get us back to where [the Tabor football program] was before with [former head coaches Tim] McCarty and [Mike] Gardner and keep up the tradition that started with them, but at the same time to produce godliness and good character," said Leiss. "Football is more than just wins and losses; it's a way of teaching young men how to live their lives, and hopefully godly lives."

Leiss will begin his responsibilities as defensive coordinator July 1. Podzimek comes to Tabor from the University of Omaha at Nebraska where he spent last season as assistant football coach, supervising the academic progress of student-athletes and recruiting. He was also responsible for the development of outside linebackers and long snappers.

His coaching career began at his alma mater, University of Mary, Bismarck, N.D., in 2000 where he served as assistant football coach. In 2003, he became defensive coordinator at Peru (Neb.) State College, and then served as assistant football coach at Hastings (Neb.) College from 2004 to 2006. Podzimek will begin his responsibilities immediately.