The announcement follows an exhaustive process that began with a nationwide search. According to Butler, the process brought in a rich pool of candidates, including the two finalists interviewed during the last two weeks.
“We’re very pleased that Coach Smith has accepted the offer,” Butler said. “We’re very grateful to the faculty, staff, student and community representatives of the search committee who worked expeditiously to evaluate the candidates.”
Smith becomes the 15th head coach in the history of the Lumberjack football program, which dates back to 1924. He replaces Doug Adkins, who resigned in November following eight years as head coach.
“Rob brings extensive experience as a Division II head coach, along with a record of student-athlete success in the classroom and on the field,” said HSU Director of Athletics Dan Collen, who made the final recommendation to hire. “He also possesses the knowledge and enthusiasm that will energize our program.”
Smith, who has served as director of athletics at Grays Harbor Community College, for the last two years, stepped away from his position at WWU following the 2005 season. During his 17-year career as the Vikings’ head coach, Smith’s teams posted a cumulative record of 109-62-1 for a .640 winning percentage . His wins total and winning percentage are the best in school history. A total of 48 athletes earned All-America recognition during his tenure.
“I want to thank President Richmond, Vice President Steven Butler, and Athletic Director Dan Collen for this opportunity, and for the confidence that they have shown in me,” Smith said. “Humboldt State has a rich football tradition, and I look forward to working with our administration, alumni, students and our large fan base to elevate HSU football to a level of which everyone can be proud.”
Smith also guided the Vikings to five national playoff appearances, including a trip to the NAIA Division II National Championship game in 1996. Smith directed Western to the school’s first national playoff appearance in 1992 and its first postseason trip as a NCAA Division II member in 1999.
The Vikings won six league titles under Smith, nearly half the school’s total of 13. He was named Columbia Football Association Coach of the Year in 1989, 1995, 1996, 1999 and 2000 and Great Northwest Athletic Conference Coach of the Year in 2001 and 2003.
Upon his arrival on Feb. 6, Smith will begin preparation for spring ball, which begins in April. He’ll also address recruiting, while taking time to meet boosters, the campus community and fans.
Smith attended the University of Washington, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in 1981, lettering three years as a fullback and playing in the 1978 Rose Bowl.
Smith and wife Wendy have two children, daughter Alison, 13 and son Jared, 8.
Humboldt State posted a 2-8 record last season as an NCAA Division II independent. The Lumberjacks will compete this year in the Great Northwest Football Conference, which will offer football again after a two-year absence.