Craig Schurig (born November 28, 1965) is an American football coach who has served as the head coach of the Pittsburg State University Gorillas in Pittsburg, Kansas since 2007. He is known for leading the program to multiple conference championships and consistent appearances in the NCAA Division II playoffs.
Early life and playing career
Schurig grew up in Kansas and attended Pittsburg State University, where he played college football as a quarterback for the Gorillas. After completing his playing eligibility, he earned a bachelor's degree in physical education from Pittsburg State.
Coaching career
Early positions
- Graduate Assistant, Pittsburg State (1988–1989): Schurig began his coaching career at his alma mater, assisting with the football program while completing graduate studies.
- Assistant Coach, University of Missouri (1990–1992): He served as a defensive backs coach under head coach Bob Stull.
- Assistant Coach, Southwest Missouri State (now Missouri State) (1993–1998): Schurig was on the staff as a defensive coordinator and defensive backs coach.
- Assistant Coach, University of Kansas (1999–2002): He held the role of linebackers coach and later defensive coordinator.
Head coach at Pittsburg State
In December 2006, Schurig was appointed head coach of the Pittsburg State Gorillas. Under his leadership, the team has achieved:
- Conference championships: MIAA titles in 2009, 2011, 2012, and 2015.
- Playoff appearances: Consistent qualification for the NCAA Division II postseason, including a berth in the 2011 national championship game.
- Coaching awards: MIAA Coach of the Year (2011, 2015).
Schurig’s tenure is marked by a strong emphasis on defensive performance and player development, producing multiple All‑American selections and NFL prospects.
Head coaching record (selected)
| Season | Overall | Conference | Playoffs |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2007 | 8–4 | 5–4 | — |
| 2009 | 10–2 | 9–0 | Lost in quarterfinals |
| 2011 | 13–1 | 9–0 | Lost in championship game |
| 2015 | 12–2 | 10–0 | Lost in semifinals |
| 2022 | 9–3 | 7–2 | Lost in second round |
(Win‑loss records are based on publicly available season summaries.)
Personal life
Schurig is married and has children. He is active in community outreach programs in Pittsburg and participates in youth football camps throughout Kansas.
References
- Pittsburg State University Athletics official website – coaching biography.
- Mid-America Intercollegiate Athletics Association (MIAA) records.
- NCAA Division II football historical data.
