James Bettcher, a 2003 graduate of the University of St. Francis in Fort Wayne, Ind., brings eight years of coaching experience to the UNH sidelines for his first season in 2011. Prior to his one season at Ball State, where he also coached special teams, Bettcher worked as a defensive graduate assistant at the University of North Carolina from 2007-09, focusing on linebackers, defensive ends and special teams for the Tar Heels, while assisting in recruiting in Ohio, Indiana and North Carolina.

In 2006, Bettcher worked as a defensive grad assistant at Bowling Green University, working with the secondary and special teams’ units and aiding recruiting efforts in Ohio and Indiana. 

Bettcher’s coaching career began at his alma mater from 2003-05 as special teams coordinator; he also worked with the strength and conditioning staff and was the head track coach in 2003 and 2004.

During his career as a student-athlete at St. Francis, Bettcher was a three-time NAIA All-American Scholar, a three-time Mid-States Football Association Scholar, a two-time NAIA Coaches’ All-American and a two-time Don Hansen’s All-American. He earned all-conference honors three times and was the recipient of the St. Francis Helmet Award for leadership and coachability in 2002. Bettcher also was a three-time track All-American for the Cougars, where he placed second in the shot put at the 2001 NAIA Championships.

James, a native of Lakeville, Ind., is married to Erica Bettcher, and they are the proud parents of one son, Colton.