A New Chapter for Gannon's Defense
Gannon University announced this week that Caleb Basaldu will take over as the new linebackers coach for its football program, a move that signals the school’s intent to bolster its defensive scheme ahead of the upcoming season.
Basaldu arrives after a three‑year stint at Virginia Military Institute, where he served as assistant tight ends coach, assistant recruiting coordinator and player development assistant, responsibilities that saw him shape scouting reports, produce motivational videos and craft gameday materials.
During his tenure at VMI he also managed social media outreach and coordinated recruiting operations, experiences that have been credited with sharpening his ability to evaluate talent and communicate effectively with prospects.
From Wake Forest to Charlotte
Before VMI, Basaldu honed his skills at Wake Forest University as an equipment manager intern and recruiting intern, assisting with official visits, Junior Day events and defensive line drills while contributing to game‑day preparations.
His early collegiate years were spent at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte, where he worked as a student equipment manager, supporting multiple position groups and gaining a comprehensive view of Division I program operations.
A native of the United States, Basaldu holds a Bachelor of Science in psychology from UNC Charlotte, a background that he says informs his approach to player development and team dynamics.
Erik Raeburn and Rich Yahner, longtime assistants in the Gannon program, will continue to play key roles as the team integrates Basaldu’s vision into its defensive strategy.
Athletic director Rich Yahner expressed confidence that Basaldu’s blend of recruiting acumen and player development experience will elevate the program’s competitiveness, especially in the highly contested Pennsylvania‑based conference.
The appointment underscores Gannon’s commitment to building a staff that reflects both regional ties and a broader recruiting footprint, a strategy that could attract more talent from the Mid‑Atlantic region.