Akron hires ND assistant Ianello as coach

Dec 10, 2009 - 8:25 PM AKRON, Ohio(AP) -- Rob Ianello, a Notre Dame assistant coach and the Fighting Irish's recruiting coordinator, will now try to convince high school stars to come to Akron.

Ianello was introduced as the Zips' new head coach on Thursday. The 44-year-old spent the previous five years at Notre Dame, where he landed some of the nation's top recruits. Ianello also coached the Irish's wide receivers coach and served as interim coach after Charlie Weis was fired.

Ianello replaces J.D. Brookhart, who was fired after Akron went 3-9 this season.

Akron athletic director Tom Wistrcill said Ianello stood out among candidates because of his background and recruiting prowess.

Ianello also coached at Wisconsin and Arizona.