West Virginia University football head coach Rich Rodriguez has announced the rehiring of former Mountaineer linebacker Chris Haering as the assistant special teams coordinator for the WVU coaching staff.
“Chris brings years of experience and success in special teams,” Rodriguez said. “He was a key player in WVU’s national championship run in 1988 and has a deep connection to this university and state. We’re excited to have him back to strengthen our special teams unit.”
Haering, entering his second season in this role, helped WVU’s special teams rank among the top in key categories during the 2024 season. The Mountaineers’ kickoff return defense ranked 12th among Power Four teams, while their kickoff return unit placed 17th. The team was also 4th in the Big 12 in punt return defense, with standout performances from kicker Michael Hayes II, who ranked 6th in field goal percentage among Power Four schools.
Haering brings a wealth of coaching experience, including seven seasons with Wisconsin under Paul Chryst. There, his special teams were instrumental in the Badgers’ success, which included three Big Ten West Division titles, six bowl wins, and three appearances in New Year’s Six bowls. His kickoff unit saw dramatic improvement, leading the Big Ten in multiple seasons and recording some of the best national metrics.
At Wisconsin, Haering also oversaw record-breaking performances from players like kicker Rafael Gaglianone, who became the school’s all-time leader in field goals and extra points. His leadership extended to Pitt, where he coached linebackers and special teams, helping players like Tyler Boyd excel in return duties.
Before his collegiate coaching tenure, Haering served as head coach at Mt. Lebanon High School (Pa.) for 17 seasons, following his start as a graduate assistant at WVU in 1991.
As a player, Haering was a standout linebacker for WVU from 1986 to 1989, helping the team to three bowl game appearances, including the 1988 national championship against Notre Dame. He ranks sixth in school history in assisted tackles (175) and 11th in total tackles (340).
Haering and his wife, Melissa, have two children, Madison and Mark. His return to WVU signals a renewed emphasis on building a high-performing special teams unit.