When Matt Janus stepped to the podium in Marquette, he brought a philosophy shaped by years of winning, teaching and building programs from the ground up. Named the 24th head football coach in Northern Michigan University history, Janus arrived with a clear vision centered on people, culture and sustained success. 

“I cannot express my gratitude enough for this opportunity,” Janus said. “There’s a lot of people that made me and got me to this point today.” 

Janus comes to NMU after a successful run at the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse, where he built one of the top programs in Division III football. Before becoming a head coach, he developed his foundation as a defensive coordinator, gaining a reputation for disciplined, aggressive defenses and player development. That background, he said, shapes how he views the game and leadership. 

For Janus, however, football has always been about more than schemes. 

“I’m coming here to do two things,” he said. “First and foremost, to up the experience of our student-athletes.” 

He described the college years as a critical stage of life, emphasizing that development extends beyond the field. 

“This time frame in the young lives of young adults is so special and meaningful and incredibly important,” Janus said. “I want to create an experience for our players that prioritizes their development, their relationships, and their involvement, not just within the football program, but within this university and within this city.” 

Janus credited NMU’s leadership and search committee for reinforcing that belief during the hiring process. 

“That group just showed me how special this place truly is,” he said. 

He also pointed to the university’s direction and energy as a major draw. With multiple leadership positions being filled at NMU he was quick to mention the newly hired president as well. 

“I shook President Olsen’s hand and you look into his eyes and you can just see the energy that he’s going to bring to this campus,” Janus said. “I am so excited to follow you and be under this new era at Northern Michigan University.” 

Family played a central role in Janus’ decision to come to Marquette. He introduced his wife Hannah and their three children, making it clear that the move represents a shared commitment. 

“We aren’t just here to coach football,” Janus said. “We are here to become part of this community and part of this university.” 

While culture comes first, Janus was direct about expectations on the field. 

“The second thing I came here to do is to win football games,” he said. 

He acknowledged the challenges the program has faced in recent seasons but still expressed confidence in the foundation already in place, pointing to facilities, institutional support and momentum from the end of last year. 

“This program will become a winner,” Janus said. “This university and this athletic department have invested the resources necessary to build a winning football program.” 

Janus described his approach as simple and deliberate. 

“My recipe for success is really, really simple,” he said. “You recruit great players, you surround them with great people, and you develop and retain them.” 

That philosophy guided his success at UW–La Crosse and now shapes his plan for NMU. While he plans to use the transfer portal selectively, Janus emphasized that long-term growth comes from recruiting and development. 

“Our team will be about the people first,” Janus said. “Our play will be a direct reflection of this area and the people who call it home.” 

Those qualities, he explained, mirror the Upper Peninsula itself. 

“People here are tough,” Janus said. “People here are bold. They’re loyal. They’re energetic. They’re adventurous.” 

As Janus prepares to take over the Wildcats, his focus remains on building something lasting. For NMU football, his arrival marks not just a fresh start, but a renewed sense of direction.