COLLEGEVILLE - St. John's University has named their next head football coach.

Current assistant coach, and 1981 St. John's Graduate, Gary Fasching becomes just the 16th head coach in the 102 year history of the Johnnies program.

Fasching replaces legendary coach John Gagliardi, who announced his retirement last month following 60 years on the job.

Fasching has been the Johnnies assistant coach, and recruiting coordinator, for the past 17 seasons.

In a news conference Friday afternoon, Fasching praised the search committee for a thorough job, and says he looks forward to carrying on the Gagliardi tradition.

Fasching also said he plans to carry on the Gagliardi tradition of limited contact practices.

Prior to joining the Johnnies staff, Fasching served as the head football coach at St. Cloud Cathedral from 1986-1995.

More From 98.1 Minnesota's New Country