With the departure of former defensive coordinator Joel Dettwiler to UW-La Crosse as head coach, Wartburg College Director of Athletics and head football coach Rick Willis has announced that Chris Winter has been promoted to the position of defensive coordinator. Winter has been on the Knights’ coaching staff since 2005.

He takes over a defensive unit that ranked among NCAA Division III’s best a year ago. The 2010 Knights were ninth in fewest points allowed per game (12.91) and eighth in turnover margin (plus 1.45 per game) as well as being in the top 10 in sacks (3.36 pg).

“Chris has been instrumental in our success and is very committed to the program,” Willis said. “We’re excited to expand his role in the leadership of our program.”

Winter, also the head strength and conditioning coordinator for the college’s athletic department, will continue to lead the defensive backs’ area as well, a position he’s been in since 2008.

Additionally, former defensive line coach Scott Power has been moved into the role of full-time defensive assistant and will coach the linebackers.

“Scott has done a tremendous job the past two years,” Willis said. “It’s a great opportunity for us to retain a quality coach and recruiter in the program.”