Sean Goldrich '15 Named UNH Head Football Coach

Former Wildcat Quarterback Becomes 21st Head Coach in Program History

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DURHAM, N.H. – University of New Hampshire Director of Athletics Allison Rich announced Monday that, following a national search, former Wildcat quarterback Sean Goldrich '15 has been appointed the 21st UNH Head Football Coach. Goldrich will be formally introduced in a press conference on Tuesday, Jan. 6 (Time TBA) in the Service Credit Union Victory Club at Wildcat Stadium.

 

"Following a national search with an extremely competitive field of finalists, it is my pleasure to name Sean Goldrich our new UNH Head Football Coach," Rich said. "While I knew of Sean's accolades as a student-athlete and the great Wildcat teams he led, through this process I have learned about Sean Goldrich the coach and the person. He is a rising star, and his passion, vision, and care for his players, along with a deep understanding and appreciation of what it means to be a Wildcat for Life, make him the right leader to honor this program's tradition of excellence while driving us toward even greater achievements."

 

"I am so grateful to Defensive Coordinator and Interim Head Coach Scott James for his leadership and stewardship of both our program and our incredible student-athletes during this time of transition," Rich added.

 

As a four-year starting quarterback, Goldrich led UNH to a pair of CAA Football championships and four NCAA tournament appearances, including two national semifinals, from 2012-15. He amassed more than 7,500 yards passing and 1,100 yards rushing as well as 67 total touchdowns while helping lead the program to its best four-year win total (37) and winning percentage (69.8%) in its 130-season history.

 

"I'm incredibly excited for the opportunity to lead this football program," Goldrich said. "The University of New Hampshire is special to me. This place has shaped me as a player and as a person. I am beyond grateful to come back home and contribute to building championship-level football. I want to thank President Chilton, Director of Athletics Allison Rich, Coach Mac and the entire interview committee for putting their trust in me. I know how special UNH is and I'm going to give everything I have to ensure our continued success."

 

Goldrich, a native of West Haven, Conn., brings eight years of collegiate coaching experience to Durham. Most recently, he was the quarterbacks coach, pass game coordinator and the head recruiting coordinator at the University of Delaware. Working under Head Coach Ryan Carty, who was Goldrich's offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at UNH, Delaware successfully transitioned to FBS (Football Bowl Subdivision) and won its inaugural bowl game earlier this month. Goldrich also spent three years on the Yale University coaching staff and one season at the University of New England.

 

"Sean's journey comes full circle at New Hampshire, and I couldn't be prouder," said Carty, who spent 11 seasons (2007-17) on the UNH coaching staff. "He earned this opportunity through his work ethic, football acumen, and the way he connects with players. I've had the privilege of coaching him as a player and working alongside him as a coach, and he's prepared for this opportunity. Sean knows what New Hampshire football means, and he's ready to lead the program with authenticity, toughness, and vision. UNH should be excited for this next chapter."

 

"Sean was one of the smartest and most competitive players that I ever coached here at UNH," said Sean McDonnell '79, 23-year UNH Head Football Coach and member of the interview committee. "Combine that with the toughness that he showed in all aspects of our program, and I am excited to see him carry on the tradition and culture of our team. His leadership style will create energy and excitement for our Wildcat fans. As a player, he never took anything for granted, and that mentality has served him well in his coaching career. It has been rewarding to see him mature in all the areas that have prepared him for this important job. He's 'one of us,' and I know he will do a great job leading this football program."

 

DHR Global, one of Forbes America's Best Executive Recruiting Firms (2017-2025), coordinated the national coaching search. The appointment is contingent upon the successful completion of a background check.

 

Under Goldrich's direction, UNH will kick off the 2026 season Aug. 28 at UAlbany.  The Wildcats' home opener is Sept. 12 vs. Stonehill College and Homecoming is Oct. 3 vs. Elon University.

 

Season tickets for the 2026 UNH football season are on sale now and start as low as $132 per season – that is an average of $22 per game. Renewals are open for current season ticket members.

 

Ticket options for groups of 20 or more are available by completing an online interest form. Single-game tickets and parking will go on sale Monday, June 1, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. at www.unhwildcats.com/buytickets.

 

For additional questions about UNH football tickets, please reach out to the UNH ticket office at 603-862-4000 or send an email to unh.tickets@unh.edu.