VERMILLION, S.D. - Glenn Caruso of Eau Claire, Wis., has been named offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach for the South Dakota Coyotes football program, according to an announcement Wednesday by USD head coach Ed Meierkort.

Caruso, who had most recently served as offensive coordinator and offensive line coach at Wisconsin-Eau Claire, will begin his duties immediately. He was also offensive coordinator and running backs coach at North Dakota State in 2002-03 and was an assistant coach at NDSU since 1997.

"We are certainly excited that Glen Caruso is joining our staff," said Meierkort, who rounded out his coaching staff with the hire of Caruso. "He brings a track record of success on the offensive side of the ball. With six years of experience in the North Central Conference, Glen understands what it takes to make an offense tick in this league. With his direction, I believe we will show everyone a balanced offense that will put points on the board."

At Wisconsin-Eau-Claire, he helped direct an offense that averaged 33 points and rolled up 417 yards in offense per game. Eau-Claire scored at least 36 points in six of its 10 games. Caruso was also the community service coordinator and professional player liaison for the Blugolds.

During his tenure at NDSU, he was also a running backs and tights ends coach and helped with various special teams. He coached three players who signed professional contracts, including two in the NFL (Jake Morris, Detroit Lions; Lamar Gordon, St. Louis Rams). He recruited the Chicago, Ill., and Wisconsin areas.

Caruso earned a bachelor of science degree in 1996 from Ithaca (N.Y.) College, majoring in sport studies. He is currently working toward a master's degree in athletic administration. He was also a graduate assistant (offensive line) at Ithaca College in 1996-97. At Ithaca, Caruso was involved in the development of in-season and off-season strength programs, while also recruiting Pennslyvania and Connecticut.

Caruso has received the Ithaca College Professional Excellence Award. While playing center for Ithaca (1992-96), he was named a National College Football Academic All-American and a member of the GTE Cosida First-Team Division II East. Ithaca College made three NCAA post-season appearances while he was a player.