MINOT, N.D. – Southwest Minnesota State University assistant football coach Mike Aldrich has resigned to accept the head coaching position at Minot State University.
 
Aldrich recently completed his second season as assistant head coach and defensive line/linebackers coach at SMSU.
 
"I would like to thank Cory Sauter, Chris Hmielewski and President Dr. Connie J. Gores for the opportunity to be a part of the Mustang family," Aldrich said. "I will always cherish my time at SMSU, as I felt we accomplished a lot in a short period of time. I will miss each and every one of the players that I worked with, I will always love those guys. And I'd like to thank the communities of Marshall and Minneota for welcoming us and allowing us to be a part of them."
 
Aldrich came to SMSU after spending two seasons as defensive coordinator at Wayne State College in 2013-14. Prior to his stint at Wayne State, Aldrich served as head coach at Augustana University from 2010-12.
 
"We wish Coach Aldrich and his family continued success as they begin a new chapter in their lives," said SMSU head football coach, Cory Sauter. "We appreciate his hard work, dedication, and leadership over the last two years at SMSU. Our coaches and players will certainly miss him, but we are also happy to see him land a head coaching job in our competitive conference.   He will do an excellent job and take advantage of this wonderful opportunity."
 
SMSU will host Minot State next season on Sept. 16 for the annual "Ag Bowl" game.