What They Are Saying About Coach Matukewicz . . .
“I knew it would only be a matter of time before Coach Tuke got his first opportunity to be a head coach at the Division I level. I know first-hand how he inspirationally led our football team to victory at the Humanitarian Bowl when we worked together at Northern Illinois University. The team played their hearts out for him and I know that will be the case at Southeast Missouri State University, as well. He is a man of integrity who will be a tremendous asset to the University and the entire community. I congratulate Tom and Lenna and wish them and their family the very best at Southeast Missouri State.”
Jeff Compher
Director of Athletics
East Carolina University
“Tom is a great teacher and excellent motivator. He understands how to reach his players and push their buttons the right way. Tom genuinely cares about his team on and off the field. Tom will bring great enthusiasm every day and will be driven to win championships. You guys got a good one.”
Dave Doeren
Head Football Coach
North Carolina State
“I am excited for Tom. This is something that he has wanted to do for a long time. He is very well-prepared and will be a great fit for Southeast Missouri State University.”
Jerry Kill
Head Football Coach
University of Minnesota
“Coach Tuke has been a very positive member of the University of Toledo Athletic Department staff. Tom will be an asset to Southeast Missouri State University as he will work extremely well with the football student-athletes in all facets of their development on and off the field. I congratulate Southeast Missouri State on this hire of an excellent leader that will be a valued member of the campus and community.”
Michael O’Brien
Vice President and Director of Athletics
University of Toledo
“I was president at Northern Illinois University when Coach Tuke was a linebackers coach under Coach Kill. He is a fine coach and a great motivator of young men. He is a great recruiter and great leader. I knew he was going to be a head coach someday. When Coach Kill left NIU for Minnesota and we were going to the Humanitarian Bowl, we were in a dilemma. Jeff Compher, the athletic director at the time, had to make a choice who would be the head coach of the team in the bowl. Jeff suggested Coach Tuke, and boy that really worked out well. It was a very difficult situation to throw someone in like that. Coach Kill was beloved by his players and Coach Tuke stepped up and had a great victory over Fresno State. He is a fine man and has a great family. You really got a good coach.”
John G. Peters
President Emeritus
Northern Illinois University
