NEWPORT NEWS, Va. - Director of Athletics Kyle McMullin today said that Dan Antolik, a Christopher Newport assistant football coach since the inception of the program, has announced his retirement. Antolik, CNU's offensive coordinator and offensive line coach, joined the newly-established program in 2000 shortly after the hiring of Matt Kelchner as head coach.

"Dan Antolik meant as much to Christopher Newport football as any person over the last 17 years," Kelchner said. "He demanded the best and our offensive line was always prepared to play at a high level. Dan had a positive impact on every young man who wore a Captains jersey. He is truly a football legend, and the best coach I've ever had the pleasure of working with. I join with the hundreds of student-athletes and coaches who have been a part of this program in wishing Dan and his wife Jackie all the best."

Antolik came to Christopher Newport following a highly-successful head coaching stint at Lafayette High School in Williamsburg. During his tenure, the team went 42-8 and advanced to the playoffs each season. His squads won three district titles and in 1998 advanced to the state championship.

His resume also includes stops at Hampton University, Bridgewater College, St. Paul's College, and Salem College. Antolik is a graduate of Fort Lewis College in Colorado and received his master's from Adams State College, also in Colorado.

The amazing success of CNU's rushing game over the first 16 seasons of action is directly attributable to the consistent play of Antolik's offensive lines. Christopher Newport has produced a steady stream of dynamic backs who have benefited from solid line play. Antolik's linemen over the years include three All-Americans, Tommy Fitzgerald, Matt Boykin, and Larry Broach.

McMullin said a search is underway for a successor to join the staff of new head coach Art Link, who has taken over from Kelchner as the program's second head coach.