Utica University Athletics

Will Pluff was hired in 2007 and enters his 15^th season on the Utica College football coaching staff, including his 11th season as the defensive coordinator. Since 2007 he has helped guide 32 defensive players to Empire 8 All-Conference recognition.

In 2016, the Pioneers matched a program-best 7-4 overall record and made their second ECAC Bowl game appearance in the last three years. Utica has won at least five games in five of its last seven seasons. The 2016 season featured three victories against nationally ranked opponents (Ohio Northern, Cortland, St. John Fisher). 11 Pioneers earned All-Conference recognition following the regular season, including first team linebacker Juwan Wilson. Wilson capped his career ranked second on the College’s all-time list in career tackles. The Pioneer defense set a new program-record with 17 interceptions and their 24.0 sacks were tied for fourth on the College’s single season list.

In 2015, Pluff helped guide defensive end Nick Woodman to his third straight all-conference honor.  Woodman was one of 19 finalists for the Cliff Harris Award as the nation’s top defensive player, while earning All-American status. Following his collegiate career, Woodman became the first player in program history to earn an invite to an NFL rookie mini camp where he competed for a roster spot with the New York Giants.

In 2014, Coach Pluff helped guide the squad to seven wins, including Utica’s first ever postseason appearance.  The Pioneers went 7-4, including a school-record five wins in the Empire 8, as they finished third and earned an ECAC Bowl bid. The 2014 edition of the Pioneer defense set a new program record with 42 pass break ups. 

Originally from Buffalo, NY and a Kenmore West graduate, Will Pluff arrived at Utica College in 2002 for the football program's second varsity season.  A four year letter winner and three year starter, Pluff capped his playing career as the defensive captain of the Pioneers in 2005.  In his final season playing he captained the program to its first winning season while earning a spot on the Empire 8 All-Conference team.

Pluff earned a History degree from Utica in 2006 and his master’s in Education in 2011. He is the son of Bill and Linda Pluff and brother to Andrew.  He currently resides in South Utica with his wife Joanne Pluff ‘08.