Kyle Schenk returns to the Pioneer staff in 2015 for his sixth season as Malone’s defensive coordinator. Prior to being hired for the coordinator role in 2010, Schenk had previously served as the Pioneers’ linebacker coach in 2007.
In his first year as coordinator, Schenk guided the Pioneer defensive unit to two shutouts, marking the first time since 1999 and only the second time in program history that Malone blanked two opponents in the same year. In 2011, Schenk’s unit piled up 22 sacks while forcing a total of 26 turnovers (15 interceptions, 11 fumble recoveries). In 2012, Malone ended the season ranked third among the GLIAC’s 15 teams in pass defense, yielding fewer than 190 yards through the air per game. The Pioneers have continued to create problems for opposing offenses over the last two years, forcing a combined total of 32 turnovers. In addition, safety Demarco Donaldson became the first player in Malone football history to earn GLIAC All-Conference First or Second Team honors after being named to the All-GLIAC Second Team in both 2013 & 2014
Before returning to Malone in 2010, Schenk spent the previous two seasons coaching linebackers and serving as the special teams coordinator at Sterling College in Sterling, Kansas. During his time at Sterling, the Warriors boasted one of the top rushing defenses in the NAIA, ranking amongst the Top 10 in rushing yards allowed in both 2008 and 2009. Sterling’s special teams units also excelled under Schenk’s guidance as the Warriors were sixth in the nation in kickoff return yards per attempt in 2008 while also ranking 10th in the nation in punt return yards per attempt.
Prior to his first stint at Malone in 2007, Schenk held assistant coach positions on the defensive staffs at Greenville (IL) College, Taylor (IN) University, and Trinity International (IL) University. Overall, Schenk has coached a total of 22 all-conference performers on defense and one all-conference kick returner.
Schenk graduated from Trinity International in 2003 with a bachelor’s degree in Physical Education and a minor in Coaching. He then completed his master’s degree in Education from Greenville in 2008. A four-year starter at linebacker while at Trinity International, Schenk wrapped up his accomplished playing career as the Trojans’ all-time leading tackler. In addition, Schenk was a three-time All-MSFA Second Team selection (2000-2002) and earned TIU’s Trojan Award following the 2002 season.
Kyle, his wife, Kristen, and their children, Sawyer, Nora and Kolter currently reside in Canton.
