VERMILLION, S.D.—David Milke, who served as director of football operations for Bob Nielson at Western Illinois, will rejoin Nielson and serve in the same capacity at University of South Dakota. Milke replaces Luke Groth, who accepted a similar position at University of Buffalo.
 
Milke (pronounced MIL-key) graduated from University of Northern Iowa in 2011 with a degree in finance and real estate. While in Cedar Falls, he served as a student assistant for the Panthers' football team. He completed scouting reports, assisted coordinators during practice, worked with the DFO on travel procedures and helped run summer camps.
 
Following graduation, Milke spent one year working for U.S. Bank in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, before being hired by Nielson in Macomb. He spent three years at Western Illinois where he coordinated travel, recruiting visits, practice schedules and camps, among other things. He returned to Cedar Rapids this past August to be an online banking representative for Goldman Sachs Bank.
 
"This opportunity presented itself and I couldn't pass it up," said Milke. "I have a passion for the game of football and am excited to rejoin Coach Nielson and his staff and can't wait to get started."
 
Milke attended Xavier High School in Cedar Rapids where he played football, basketball, baseball and ran track. He is engaged to Natalie Bordignon, who also hails from Cedar Rapids.