Martin T. “Marty” Pierson, a former letter-winner for the Delaware football team in 1942, died at the age of 87. Pierson served as an assistant coach for the Blue Hens and led the team to its first national championship. He earned a letter as a tackle for the 1942 team under head coach Bill Murray, leading the team to an 8-0 record. The Blue Hens outscored opponents, 196-28, and posted five shutouts. He later attended Worcester Polytechnic Institute, where he earned his degree and also played for the football team. He enlisted in the Navy and rose to the rank of Lieutenant and served in the Pacific during World War II.

Other transactions

Directors of athletics – Rutgers named Tim Pernetti athletics director.

Coaches

Men’s and women’s cross country – Heidelberg hired Keith Roberts Jr. as men’s and women’s cross country and track and field coach. … Pacific named Rachel Booth women’s cross country coach.

Football assistants -- Akron named Vince Okruch linebackers coach. … Massachusetts named Steve Tirrell associate football coach-special teams coordinator-defensive line coach and Dyran Peake assistant football coach-defensive backs. The school also promoted Brian Picucci to offensive coordinator, reassigned Guido Falbo to assistant football coach-centers-guards and Mike Wood assistant football coach-running backs. … Virginia named Bob Trott linebackers coach.

Men’s and women’s volleyball – Toledo announced the resignation of women’s volleyball coach Kent Miller to accept a position as an assistant volleyball coach at Illinois.