SPRINGFIELD, Mass. American International College Head Football Coach Art Wilkins has announced Kris Kulzer's elevation to Assistant Head Coach, effective this summer, heading into the 2015 season.

Kulzer, who has been with the team as an assistant for five years as the linebacker's coach, is also the squad's recruiting coordinator.Since joining the AIC football staff in 2011, the Jackets have posted a record of 30-13 (.698).

With Kulzer on the sidelines, the Yellow Jackets had the number one red zone defense in the nation in 2013 and the seventh best total defense in 2008. He has coached 13 Northeast-10 All-Conference honorees including the 2013 NE-10 Defensive Player of the Year, Jaquawne Simpkins.

"Coach Kulzer has been my right hand man for seven years, acting as assistant head, so it is finally a joy to name him to that position," said Wilkins.

Kulzer graduated from American International in 2007 with a Bachelor's Degree in Sport Management and played two seasons for AIC. He returned from 2008-2010 as a Graduate Assistant Coach in charge of linebackers and punt return team. He completed his Master's in Community Source Development in 2010.

"It is a great honor to be named assistant head coach at my alma mater and I am eager to begin my new role with the team," said Kulzer. "I know it will take hard work and I look forward to the challenge."

The Yellow Jackets open the season Sep. 5 at Division I-AA Bryant before starting NE-10 play the following week, the home opener against true rival, Southern Connecticut.