CRETE, Neb. -- Doane football has announced the hiring of Jonathan Johnson as the next head coach for the Tiger football program, according to the University.

This comes after the departure of Chris Bessler at the beginning of the offseason after a 2-9 regular season.

Johnson started coaching at Belhaven University in Mississippi where he was a defensive line coach and equipment manager. He then joined Mississippi Gulf Coast CC as a tight ends and full backs coach before returning to the defensive side of the ball with a stop at Stetson.

“We are excited to welcome Coach Johnson to the Doane family,” said Mark Wateska, Doane Director of Athletics. “We had an outstanding pool of candidates which is a testament to the excellence of Doane University. He brings the passion, energy, and knowledge to return Doane Football to one of the top teams in the GPAC and on the national level.”

Johnson’s most recent tenure was at Hilbert College (N.Y.) where he was Assistant Head Coach and Defensive Coordinator for the start-up Division III program that completed its first season in November.

“I am excited to return to my NAIA roots and provide the same type of student-athlete experience that prepared me for where I am today,” said Johnson.

Johnson played at Belhaven as a defensive end in college.

Johnson will start on Jan. 8.