MARQUETTE, Mich. - Northern Michigan football coach Shane Richardson has announced the addition of Elijah Fernandez to the coaching staff as the team's Running Backs Coach as the Wildcats are currently in spring ball and beginning preparation for the 2025 season. Fernandez will also serve as the team's Recruiting Coordinator.

"We are excited to add Elijah Fernandez to our program," said Richardson. "He brings an enthusiastic attitude, while demonstrating tremendous eagerness to do things right and at a high level. He will serve as our Recruiting Coordinator, and brings a passion to communicate well with High School coaches and prospects to find the best fits for our program. Elijah aligns with our program vision and values, and takes great pride in his work ethic. We are excited for him to contribute to the future of Wildcat Football."

Fernandez comes to Marquette after holding a position as the Running Backs Coach at Edinboro University (Division II) in Edinboro, Pennsylvania the last two seasons. On top of overseeing the backfield, he analyzed film, managed and conducted special teams scout teams, recruited and ran campus tours, and served as the academic and equipment coordinator.

While at Edinboro, Fernandez oversaw a backfield that accounted for 28 touchdowns. The Fighting Scots also knocked off Division I Robert Morris this past season with 147 rushing yards and a touchdown from Fernandez's group. 

Prior to his stop in Edinboro, Fernandez was the Offensive Quality Control Coach at William & Mary in Williamsburg, Virginia for one season. Before that, he was the Wide Receivers Coach at Virginia University of Lynchburg in Lynchburg, Virginia.

From 2019-2021, Fernandez was a Student Assistant and handled Equipment duties at Liberty University. He graduated from there in December of 2022 with a B.S. in Coaching, Sport, Event,
& Tourism Management.