Kutztown University football coach Jim Clements has received the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) Region 1 award for the third consecutive year. This recognition comes after the Golden Bears secured their third straight championship in the Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference this season. Clements has now earned a total of six regional awards, five of which have been achieved at Kutztown and one during his tenure at Delaware Valley.
The AFCA honors five regional Coach of the Year winners in each of its five divisions: Football Bowl Subdivision, Football Championship Subdivision, Division II, Division III, and NAIA. Winners are chosen by active members of the association who cast their votes for coaches within their respective regions and divisions.
Under Clements’ leadership, the Golden Bears have completed two consecutive undefeated regular seasons. They are currently the top seed in the NCAA Division II Super One Region and began the playoffs last weekend with an impressive 52-0 victory over Bentley. This Saturday, Kutztown will host Assumption in the second round of the playoffs.
Clements is the all-time winningest head coach for Kutztown, boasting a record of 102-29. His overall coaching record stands at 168-53 over his 19 seasons at both Kutztown and Delaware Valley.
In addition to Clements, other notable coaches receiving regional honors include Curt Cignetti from Indiana, who was recognized for the second straight year in FBS Region 3, and Kevin Cahill of Lehigh, who led his team to an unbeaten season and the Patriot League title. Cahill’s team received a first-round bye in the FBC tournament, beginning their playoff journey on December 6, 2025.
The AFCA will announce the National Coaches of the Year winners across all divisions on December 15, 2025. The regional award winners in each division will be considered finalists for this prestigious national title. Historically, Mount Union, North Dakota State, and Nebraska are the top three schools for regional coach winners, each having produced numerous award recipients.
Clements’ achievements not only highlight his personal success but also reflect the strength of the Kutztown football program, positioning it as a formidable competitor in collegiate athletics.
