KEARNEY, Neb. — Four Nebraska Kearney coaches have new contracts designed to keep them as Lopers for the next four years.

The university announced contract extensions for football coach Ryan Held, wrestling coach Dalton Jensen, soccer coach Rob Breton and volleyball coach Rick Squiers. Their contracts now run through the end of 2028.

"At moments like this, you realize who you can count on and who is committed to UNK, our alums, and our student-athletes. I would put our entire coaching staff up against any coaching staff in the nation. These four reflect the values we have become accustomed to at UNK, such as hard work, doing the right thing, and always working towards developing and bringing out the best in their players,"  Athletic Director Dr. Marc Bauer said in a statement. "These new multi-year contract extensions represent a long-term commitment, stability, and investment needed to continue these programs' upward trajectory, which directly impacts our fan base, community, and the University."   

Held has led UNK football for the past two season. The team finished 3-8 his first year and 5-6 his second year with marquee wins vs. Northwest Missouri St. and at Chadron St.

"I'm very thankful to Chancellor Bicak and Dr. Marc Bauer for my contract extension. It means a lot to my family and my coaches," said Held.  "We're excited about where we are at but are looking forward to continuing to build the program the right way helping our players graduate and become their best versions on and off the field."

Jensen has continued UNK’s strong wrestling program over his nine years as head coach. The Loper alum guided UNK to the 2022 national championship and a third place finish last season.

"I'm grateful for Marc and the University for trusting my staff and I to continue to lead this historic program. Kearney is a special place that has phenomenal support for our student-athletes to help them achieve success both on and off the mat," said Jensen.  

Breton has rebuilt the women’s soccer team from a group that struggled to get any wins to a squad in the conference tournament. The Lopers went 8-6-5 this fall, which was Breton’s third as head coach.

"I am very excited to be staying with the Lopers for three more seasons. Kearney has become a home to me, and I am very grateful for my opportunity to be here," said Breton. "Thank you, Dr. Bauer, for trusting me with this program and these ladies, as well as the community of Kearney for all the support."

Squiers has amassed a 788-111 record (.877-win pct.) since taking over the reins of Loper volleyball in 1999. The program has made 25 consecutive NCAA Tournaments, twice been Nationals Runner Up, and won 17 regular season league titles.

"Thank you to Dr. Bauer, Jon Watts, and Dr. Bicak for their continued support and commitment to Loper volleyball.  It remains my honor to serve as head coach. This is truly a special place," said Squiers.