From Walk-On to Offensive Coordinator: Welcome Austin Brown to the University of Mary!

The University of Mary Marauders are gearing up for an exciting new chapter with a fresh face leading the offense. Coach Austin Brown has officially joined the UMary football staff as the new Assistant Football Coach and Offensive Coordinator. Bringing a wealth of experience from the Division I level down to his roots in the Dakotas, Brown's journey is a testament to the grind and dedication required in college football.

Here is a look at the impressive playing and coaching resume our new Offensive Coordinator brings to Bismarck.

Deep Dakota Roots and a "Walk-On" Mentality

Hailing from Buffalo, South Dakota, Brown knows exactly what it takes to earn his spot on the gridiron.

• Oklahoma Origins: Brown began his collegiate athletic career in the high-stakes environment of the University of Oklahoma. Arriving as a preferred walk-on, he spent two foundational years grinding with the Sooners.
• Dickinson State Standout: Looking to make a bigger impact and play closer to home, Brown transferred to Dickinson State University (DSU) in North Dakota. He dominated as a three-year starting wide receiver, earning all-conference honors twice and helping the Blue Hawks secure two conference championships before graduating in 2016 with a Bachelor of Arts.

Climbing the Coaching Ranks

Following his successful playing days, Brown wasted no time jumping into the coaching industry, cutting his teeth at major Power Five programs before ascending to a coordinator role.

• University of Colorado (2017–2018): Brown started his coaching career in Boulder as an offensive intern (working directly with quarterbacks) and a recruiting assistant, learning the intricate details of Division I operations.
• Oregon State University (2018–2021): Making the leap to the Pacific Northwest, Brown arrived on the OSU campus as an Offensive Graduate Assistant Coach. He worked with the wide receivers under top Pac-12 offensive minds, completing his master's degree in 2020 while sharpening his offensive philosophy.
• The Path to Play-Caller: Brown’s resume quickly expanded from an assistant to a trusted offensive architect. He took on roles as the Wide Receivers Coach and Recruiting Coordinator at Southern Oregon University before swiftly being promoted to Offensive Coordinator. He later held the OC position at Eastern Oregon University and served as the Pass Game Coordinator for a highly successful Bemidji State squad before finding his new home with UMary.

What This Means for the Marauders

With a diverse background—from earning his stripes as a preferred walk-on to coaching at the highest collegiate levels and successfully coordinating offenses—Austin Brown brings an incredible pedigree to the University of Mary. He has a proven track record of developing wide receivers and building high-powered, efficient passing attacks.

Marauders fans, get ready for an explosive and disciplined offense this season. Welcome to Bismarck, Coach Brown!