Kalamazoo College Director of Athletics and Head Football Coach Jamie Zorbo announced today that he will step down from his role as head football coach following the 2025 season. Zorbo will continue to serve as the College's Director of Athletics, a position he has held concurrently since June 15, 2024. A national search for Kalamazoo College's next head football coach will begin immediately.

"After much thought and reflection, I have made the very difficult decision to step away from my role as Head Football Coach to focus fully on my responsibilities as Director of Athletics," Zorbo said. "I am sharing this news now to ensure we can have new leadership in place shortly after the start of the new year, allowing for a smooth transition and continued momentum for the program. I'm deeply grateful for the loyal trust, support and passion of our players, alumni, families and fans. The future of Hornet Football is bright, and I look forward to seeing the program continue to grow and succeed under new leadership."

A 2000 Kalamazoo College graduate, Zorbo has led the Kalamazoo College football program for 18 seasons since being named the 25th head coach in school history on Dec. 4, 2007.

"Coaching at my alma mater has been one of the greatest honors and enriching experiences of my life," Zorbo added. "For more than 25 years, 18 seasons of which have been on as head coach, I've had the privilege of living out my dream of working alongside exceptional student-athletes, coaches and colleagues who have represented Kalamazoo College with pride, integrity and resilience. The relationships formed and the growth I've witnessed—on and off the field—are what make this institution and football program so special. 

"As I conclude my coaching responsibilities and focus solely on leading the department, my commitment to our student-athletes and coaches remains as strong as ever. I'm excited to focus my energy on supporting all of our programs, elevating the student-athlete experience and advancing the mission of Kalamazoo College and Hornet Athletics."

Under Zorbo's leadership, the program achieved 59 career wins to date, including a 4-3 record currently and a 7-3 finish in 2018, the team's most wins since 1983. His teams have produced 69 All-MIAA selections during his tenure. Under Zorbo's leadership, the program has grown to 107 student-athletes — the largest roster in Kalamazoo College football history.

Zorbo will continue to guide the football program until a new head coach is in place.

"We're grateful to Jamie for his integrity, mentorship of our players and leadership over the past 18 years as head football coach," said Provost Danette Ifert Johnson. "As Kalamazoo College's athletic programs have continued to grow—now encompassing more than 450 student-athletes and 22 varsity sports—the role of director of athletics has expanded as well. We deeply appreciate Jamie's continued commitment to leading the department and supporting the success of all Hornet teams."