DES MOINES, IOWA — Grand View University is thrilled to announce E.J. Peterson's appointment as head football coach for the Vikings. 

A proud 2011 Grand View alumnus, E.J. Peterson brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having spent the past six years as the Defensive Coordinator and Assistant Coach for the nation's top NAIA defense. During that time, the program achieved unparalleled success, including an undefeated regular-season record over six seasons. Peterson's elevation marks the beginning of an exciting new era for Vikings football.

E.J. Peterson takes the helm at Grand View after helping guide the Vikings to a flawless 14-0 season and their second National Championship in program history earlier this month. Along the way, the team solidified its dominance by defeating the last three NAIA National Champions—two of which were Iowa programs—on their path to the title.
 
As Defensive Coordinator, Peterson was instrumental in shaping one of the most dominant defenses in NAIA history. This past season, the Vikings led the nation in several key categories, including total yards allowed (219.9 per game), passing yards (146.9), rushing yards (73.0), and points per game (8.4). In postseason play, Grand View's defense surrendered just five touchdowns across four games and limited opponents to a mere 22% success rate on third-down conversions.
 
Peterson's leadership also elevated individual players to national recognition in recent years. Tristin Waugh earned the program's first-ever Cliff Harris Award, John Argo was named a Harris finalist, and Grand View produced four Heart of America Defensive Players of the Year and 10 All-Americans during Peterson's six seasons as Defensive Coordinator.
 
He replaces Joe Woodley, who led the Vikings as head coach for six successful seasons.
 
"As a Hall of Fame player, a highly accomplished Assistant Coach, and one of the most successful Defensive Coordinators in NAIA football history, E.J. has consistently demonstrated excellence both on and off the field," said Troy Plummer, Vice President for Athletics. "His deep connection to Grand View, unmatched work ethic, and proven leadership make him the ideal candidate to guide our program into an exciting new chapter. Peterson has earned this opportunity, having wholly dedicated himself to the success and tradition of Vikings football."
 
"Coach Peterson's passion and commitment to Grand View University are unmatched, making him the perfect choice to lead our championship football program into the future," said Dr. Rachelle Keck, Grand View University President.
 
"I am incredibly honored to have the opportunity to lead a program that has meant so much to me as both a player and a coach," said Peterson. "Coach Joe and the Woodley family have built an extraordinary tradition here at Grand View, and I am excited to carry that legacy forward. Having had the privilege to play for and now coach at this university over the past six years, I couldn't be more eager to get to work with our team and continue building on the unmatched excellence that defines Vikings football."
 
E.J. Peterson will begin his new role effective immediately.
 
WHAT THEY ARE SAYING ABOUT COACH P
 
"I think Coach Peterson taking over is going to be great for this team and the program, not only does he bring incredible coaching and football knowledge, but as a former Grand View player, he truly understands what it takes to be successful here. He's been in our shoes and wouldn't ask us to do anything he hasn't done himself. Coach Peterson is the kind of leader guys want to follow and play for because he embodies what it means to be a football guy through and through." – John Argo, JR, Heart of America Defensive Player of the Year.
 
"Having Coach Peterson take over means a lot to me and the team. He's been a huge part of our success, and knowing he'll be leading us for my final season gives me even more confidence in what we can accomplish. Coach Peterson's passion, leadership, and understanding of what it takes to win at Grand View make him the perfect choice. I'm excited to finish my college career playing for a coach who knows this program inside and out and pushes us to be our best every single day." – Jackson Waring, SR, Heart of America Player of the Year/NAIA Player of the Year.
 
"I'm excited to see the impact Coach Peterson will make as Head Football Coach at Grand View. His dedication and leadership on defense have been nothing short of exceptional. I'm confident our players and the program will reach even greater heights under his guidance. No one is more deserving or has poured more into this program than Coach P." – Jordan Knock '17, Assistant Coach/Recruiting Coordinator.
 
"I want to congratulate Coach E.J. on taking the reins of this incredible program. Undoubtedly, he will be an outstanding leader, continuing to uphold the high standards and tradition of excellence that have defined Grand View football. The program's success is in great hands with him" – Tristin Waugh, 2023 Cliff Harris Award Winner.
 
"Coach EJ is not just a great coach and person—he's a true leader of men. What sets him apart is his unique ability to inspire players to not only play hard but to push themselves and their teammates beyond the finish line. As a GV guy who's been through the program, he understands what we're experiencing and knows what it takes to achieve success." – Ryan Saddler, SO, 2023 HOA Newcomer of the Year (Offensive Lineman). 

"I think Coach Peterson was the perfect hire. He always had us well-prepared each week and instilled confidence in us. He's played a huge role in all of Grand View's success and helped shape me into the player I've become. I owe a lot to him for preparing me for the professional level. He's a great leader, and that's exactly what will make him a great head coach." -Nate Wieland, '21, Professional Football Player. 

THE E.J. PETERSON FILE
Birthdate: April 22, 1989
Hometown: Monroe, Iowa
Family: Wife Abby, two children Luke & Jess.

Education
Associate degree, Iowa Central Community College, 2009
Bachelor's degree, Kinesiology, Grand View University, 2011

Coaching Career
Head Coach, Grand View University, 2024-current
Defensive Coordinator, Grand View University, 2018-2024
Defensive Coordinator, McPherson College, 2014-2018
Linebackers Coach/Strength & Conditioning Coordinator, McPherson College, 2012-2014

Coaching Accomplishments
2019, 2020, 2021, 2022, 2023, & 2024 Heart of America Athletic Conference champions (GVU D. Co.)… 2020 & 2024 Heart of America Assistant Coach of the Year… 2024 National Champions (GVU D. Co./Top Defense in the Country), Undefeated through six seasons in the Heart of America, One National Defensive Player of the Year.

THE FACTS ON PETERSON
12 years of college coaching experience
10 years as a Defensive Coordinator
2 National Championship game appearances
1 National Title 
Top Statistical Defense in the Country
1 Cliff Harris Award Winner
5 Heart of America Defensive Players of the Year
Coached the Defensive Player of the Game in the 2024 National Championship
4 Shutouts in the 2024 Season
18 Shutouts in 6 Seasons as the DC
10 Defensive All-Americans
2 Athletes from his D. Coordinator tenure Played in the NFL 
Midwestern-born and bred
 
PETERSON'S PLAYING CAREER
2x First Team All-Conference
2010 Conference Defensive Player of the Year 
2010 All-American
Played Professionally for the Iowa Barnstormers
2021 Grand View Hall of Fame Inductee

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