Coaches

In 2012, Heffernan mentored All-GLIAC guard Curtis Ferguson and five Academic All-GLIAC selections (C Thom Box, DE/LS Mike Komor, G Sean McCarthy, T Nate Theaker and T Ben Walker). Ferguson was also voted as the team’s 2012 Offensive Most Valuable Player. His 2011 offensive line unit helped the Warriors average more than 200 rushing yards per game, leading WSU to a school record for overall wins (12), road wins (8) and four consecutive road playoff games to reach the national title contest.

Heffernan’s Warriors ranked in the Top 40 nationally in four categories in 2011 – ninth in fewest sacks allowed (0.94 per game), 23^rd in scoring offense (34.38 ppg), 26^th in passing efficiency (144.02) and 33^rd in rushing offense (200.56). In 2010, Senior LT Joe Long was named the recipient for the Gene Upshaw Award as the top lineman, both offensive and defensive, in Division II under Heffernan’s guidance.

Prior to his tenure at WSU, Heffernan spent two seasons (2005-06) as a graduate assistant offensive line coach at Michigan. During his time in Ann Arbor, the Wolverines compiled a 18-7 overall record and appeared in the Rose Bowl and Alamo Bowl. Heffernan began his coaching career in 2003 as the offensive line coach at Cumberland University before working as a graduate assistant with the defensive line at Louisville.

A native of Arlington Heights, Ill., Heffernan attended Loyola Academy in Wilmette, Ill. and went on to become a three-year letterman and two-year starter at center for the University of Dayton. He earned All-Pioneer Football League academic honors twice and was a member of four consecutive conference championship teams. He graduated from Dayton in 2003 with a Bachelor of Arts degree, majoring in communications.

Heffernan is married to the former Jamie Paulson and the couple lives in Plymouth with their son, Connor. He is a member of the American Football Coaches Association.

HEFFERNAN’S COACHING BACKGROUND
Detroit Lions    2013-
• Assistant Offensive Line Coach    2013-

Wayne State University    2007-2012
• Offensive Line Coach    2007-2012

Michigan    2005-2006
• Offensive Line Graduate Assistant    2005-2006

Louisville    2004
• Defensive Line Graduate Assistant    2004

Cumberland    2003
• Offensive Line Coach    2003