Patrick Ross was hired as the head coach at Lindenwood University in the spring of 2004. In the three previous seasons the NAIA college in St. Charles, MO had won a total of seven games. There was really only one way to go.
Not only did the Lindenwood Lions move in the other direction, they won their first ever conference championship in Ross’ first year as their head man. Lindenwood has been in the conference picture each year in Ross’ six years at the school and have improved in each of the last three seasons: in 2007, the Lions finished 10-2, losing in the first round of the playoffs; in 2008, Lindenwood completed the season 11-2, losing in the NAIA National Semifinals; and this past fall, Ross’ team completed an undefeated season but lost to Sioux Falls in the NAIA Championship game, finishing 13-1. His six-year record at the school stands at 57-17.
Probably Lindenwood’s most impressive performance this past season was a 42-35 win over perennial NAIA power Carroll College in the semifinals. The Lions snapped Carroll’s 24 game home winning streak, amassing 570 yards of offense against the #2 ranked defense in the country.
Ross credits his team’s success mainly to two things: a consistent staff of assistant coaches and team chemistry. “It’s important to have continuity with your staff,” said Ross. “That factor and having team chemistry, especially when there is some adversity, can make the difference.”
There’s more good news in St. Charles. Lindenwood’s starting quarterback and leading rusher both return for next season.