(Peru, Neb.) – Jacob Coughlin (Omaha) has worked as a graduate assistant for the Peru State football program this past academic year.

Coughlin first received his bachelor of science in management and computer management information systems from Peru State in December of 2018. Currently, he is pursuing his master's in organizational management from the College.

As a player, he finished his career a two-time First Team Heart of America Athletic Conference (Heart) All-Conference receiver, leading the Bobcats in almost every receiving statistic in 2016 and 2017. Coughlin, only missing one game in his career, finished with a total of 1,580 all-purpose yards and 14 touchdowns - with 1,258 of those yards being receiving yards.

Coughlin started his coaching career in the spring of 2018, after his final playing year as a Bobcat. He served as a student assistant, coaching the receivers in the fall while finishing his bachelor's degree, which then led to former head coach Steve Schneider offering him a graduate assistant coaching position. Coughlin is going on his third season as receivers coach at Peru State College.

The Bobcat football program is under new leadership with first-year head coach Casey Creehan. He had this to say about Coughlin, "We are fortunate to retain Jake as part of our 2020 football staff. Jake will continue to coach our wide receiver position. I look forward to working with him this season! He is a high character individual that loves Peru State football."

Coughlin stated, "I'm very grateful and fortunate to have been given the opportunity, not only to play as a Bobcat, but also to coach and guide these young men wearing the same colors as I once did. Peru will always have a special place near my heart and I take a lot pride in this place because I wouldn't be the man I am today without this place and people here. I am thankful for Coach Schneider for giving me both the opportunity to play and start my coaching career here at Peru State. I am also very excited to get to work with Coach Creehan and learn from such a knowledgeable coach like himself. GO CATS!"