TIFFIN -- On Tuesday, Heidelberg University Athletic Director Greg Cooper announced the title changes for three longtime assistant coaches.  Men's basketball coach Corey Harvey and football coaches Branden Jakubcin and Jason Lewis have been promoted to associate head coach -- a testament to their commitment to the university.  

Harvey, entering his sixth season at Heidelberg, has helped propel the men's basketball team into the national spotlight.  After going 8-18 in Harvey's first season on the bench, the Student Princes were 19-8 in 2022-23 and spent several weeks in the top 25. In those five seasons, Heidelberg has landed 13 All-Ohio Athletic Conference honorees.  

"Corey has been an integral part of our success over the last five years," said Head Men's Basketball Coach Andy Bucheit. "His commitment to the game and to our student-athletes is unparalleled."

Jakubcin, a 2009 'Berg graduate, is entering his 17th season as a member of the football coaching staff and his eighth as defensive coordinator. Affectionately referred to as Coach Jake, he mentored the 2022 defense which allowed 16.2 points per game -- their best mark since 1994.  As a result, he was named OAC Assistant Coach of the Year.  His office wall is covered by photos of the throng of the All-OAC honorees under his tutelage, including several All-Americans.

Entering his 15th season overall and seventh as offensive coordinator, Lewis has guided the 'Berg offense into one of the most entertaining and consistent in the region.  With an "all gas, no brakes" mindset, the Student Princes have averaged 34 points per game in the Lewis era.  Like Jakubcin, Lewis has an OAC Assistant Coach of the Year honor on his resume -- an accolade he picked up after the 2019 season.  Among the student-athletes to earn conference and national recognition, offensive lineman Brock Riggs won the Piesman Trophy in 2017, scoring on a play designed by Lewis.

"Words can't explain how important Jake and Jason are to the success of Heidelberg Football," said Head Football Coach Scott Donaldson. "Having coordinators with their level of success and longevity is nearly unheard of at this level -- and the young men in our program are direct beneficiaries."

Football season kicks off at Hiram on Thursday, Aug. 31. Men's basketball tips off with the Ron Linhart Memorial Tournament at home on Nov. 10.