Riley Martello Named Defensive Coordinator for UMW Football

Head football coach Ryan Nourse has announced the hiring of former Bulldog football player Riley Martello as the new defensive coordinator. Martello replaces Rob Goode who left to take a position at Loras College.

Martello was a standout linebacker for the Bulldogs who appeared in 29 total games and was a three-year team captain. He finished his career with 117 total tackles, nine and a half tackles for loss, four sacks and three interceptions including one for a touchdown. Was named the team's Special Teams Player of the year in 2015, earned Frontier Conference Defensive player of the week in 2018, and named the STEP player of the year (Team MVP) in 2018.

"I'm very honored and grateful to be back here at Montana Western," said Martello. "This university and football program gave me a chance and an opportunity to pursue my goals and passions. I'm excited to give back to all the current and future Dawgs to make this a great experience and to continue the Dawg traditions and standards."

Martello returns to Montana Western after a year at Montana Western followed by stops at Carroll College, Loras College and most recently Montana State University. He's married to former Bulldog women's basketball player Taylor Howlett and the couple is expecting their first child in June.

"Riley brings a ton of energy and enthusiasm to the position," Coach Ryan Nourse said. "His experience at UMW as a player and coach gives him a jump on starting the position and making an immediate impact. The program is fortunate to have a loyal, trustworthy and talented former Dawg to lead the defense."