The third, Iowa native Greg McDermott, brings the family issue into play as a former Panther whose first two head coaching stops at the Division II level were also highlighted by wins. All three appear capable of building the community relationships that are so important to the construction of the new McLeodUSA Center, and rejuvenating waning public interest in the program. One school of thought gives McDermott an edge. Hartzell wants at least one new coach with Panther ties. If he holds to that, it makes sense to give McDermott a shot in a basketball program where expectations aren't great and a rebuilding period is all but inevitable.
Football is a different story.
The last thing UNI's proud program can afford is a setback. And while there is no such thing as a guaranteed winner, experience might weigh more heavily in that decision. Nick Quartaro and John Austin have been head coaches. Bill Salmon, Mark Farley and Mark Hendrickson have not. Quartaro impressed committee members with his background and the level of responsibility he's held at the Division I level.