Long-time assistant coach Jim Ketner returns to Kutztown University as the cornerbacks coach in 2026.
Ketner previously spent 11 seasons with the Golden Bears before his retirement following the 2023 campaign. He most recently served as the cornerbacks coach and special teams coordinator. The 2023 team finished with a then-school record 12 victories (12-3), while winning the PSAC East and PSAC titles and the program's first-ever Super Region 1 championship.
Ketner has mentored nine All-PSAC East selections during his time with the Maroon and Gold. In the secondary, Ketner's top graduate was four-year starter English Peay, a two-time All-PSAC East and 2014 All-Region player who holds the single-season and career breakups record. Ketner joined KU as the defensive line coach in 2012, guiding Tyrone Brown and Zach Greenwald to All-PSAC East Second Team honors.
In 2021, the Golden Bear pass defense was among the PSAC's best, allowing just 188.2 yards per game through the air.
The KU defense posted its best year in the modern era in rushing defense in 2017, holding opponents to 86.7 yards/game. KU held opponents to 19.5 points per game, the best mark for the program since 1996, and less than 200 passing yards per game for the first time in 10 years.
Ketner arrived at Kutztown following a successful stint at Blue Mountain High School, where he served as both coach and principal. Previously, he spent 16 years on the staff at his alma mater, Millersville University, working under hall of fame coach Gene Carpenter. He coached defensive backs and was defensive coordinator for seven years with the Marauders while also serving as the recruiting coordinator for five seasons.
Ketner was a three-year letterman and All-PSAC selection at free safety for Millersville before graduating with a bachelor’s degree in mathematics in 1974. He went on to earn a master’s degree in education with a focus in counseling from Millersville in 1978.
Updated 8/24/26
