Kutztown University is poised to pursue its third consecutive Pennsylvania State Athletic Conference (PSAC) title in 2025, entering the season with high expectations after back-to-back championships and NCAA Division II playoff appearances. Under the leadership of head coach Jim Clements, who has been awarded the PSAC Coach of the Year five times, the Golden Bears are prepared to defend their title and continue their successful trajectory.
Clements, now in his 11th season with a record of 90-29, emphasizes the importance of teamwork and culture in his program. “We’ve had really good players who buy into our culture, and I’ve been really fortunate to have really good coaches,” he stated. The Golden Bears have cultivated a strong roster, returning many experienced players who are eager to build on last year’s achievements.
As anticipated, Kutztown has been ranked No. 1 in the PSAC preseason poll, but Clements cautions that rankings alone do not dictate success. “All the preseason accolades and all that stuff really doesn’t phase us or matter to us,” he said. The team is focused on performance, preparing to showcase their skills on game days.
The Golden Bears’ defensive unit has been a cornerstone of their success, leading the PSAC in defensive rankings for the past three seasons. In the previous season, they allowed just 122 points over 12 games, averaging 10.2 points per game. The defense is spearheaded by Freddie Retter, the reigning PSAC Eastern Division Defensive Player of the Year. The redshirt junior defensive lineman’s impressive stats include leading the conference in solo tackles for loss and recording 7.5 sacks. Clements praises Retter’s leadership and work ethic, stating, “He’s the ultimate teammate.”
On the offensive side, quarterback Judd Novak returns for his fourth season, having thrown for 2,004 yards and 20 touchdowns last year with a completion rate of 63%. His ability to lead the offense will be crucial as he takes on additional responsibilities in the playbook. “He does everything the right way,” Clements mentioned, highlighting Novak’s commitment to maintaining his health and performance.
The Golden Bears faced a tough ending last season, losing in overtime to No. 11 Slippery Rock in the second round of the NCAA playoffs. Clements reflects on this disappointment, noting that it has motivated the team during the offseason. “It was a disappointing ending for sure. Losing in overtime was brutal,” he said. The team is determined to advance further this year.
Kutztown will open the 2025 season with a home game against Assumption on September 4, having previously won their last meeting 24-6. The Golden Bears’ schedule also includes significant matchups against teams such as Edinboro, Shepherd, and IUP, as they aim to solidify their position at the top of the PSAC.
Key players expected to make an impact this season include offensive contributors Jaedyn Stewart, Steven Burkhardt, and Noah Kracyla, along with defensive stalwarts Braydon Pohlman and Brandon Strausser. With a strong mix of talent and leadership, Kutztown University is set to embark on another exciting season of college football, with aspirations of a championship repeat firmly in their sights.
