MOSCOW, Idaho - Robb Akey was introduced Wednesday as head football coach at the University of Idaho. Akey, 40, made a short trip to Moscow from Pullman, Wash., where he's been the defensive coordinator for Washington State University since 2003 and a member of the Cougar defensive staff since 1999.

"Robb brings a tremendous energy and excitement to the program - not to mention a wealth of coaching experience," Idaho Director of Athletics Rob Spear said. "He knows the Palouse. He knows football. He's passionate about the game and about coaching. Robb's hiring concludes a very thorough search that drew interest from across the country. With his enthusiasm, depth of experience, and ties to the Palouse, Robb meets all the criteria I set forth when we began this search."

Akey's energy and enthusiasm were evident at his introductory news conference.

"I'm excited to be at the University of Idaho," Akey said. "I think this a program with uptapped potential. I'm anxious to bring back Vandal Pride."

Akey has served as WSU's defensive coordinator and defensive line coach for the past four seasons after a four-year stint as the Cougar's defensive line coach. Prior to coming to the Palouse, Akey spent four seasons at Northern Arizona University where he first was special teams coordinator and linebackers coach (1995) prior to being elevated to defensive coordinator (1996-98).

His introduction to coaching came at his alma mater, Weber State University, where he was the Wildcats' defensive line assistant (1988) prior to taking over as the defensive line coach (1989-94).

He played at Weber State University where he earned all-conference and honorable mention All-America honors after a senior season during which he became the Wildcats' career sack leader.

Details of his contract were not made public pending State Board of Education approval.

Coaching experience

1988 Assistant defensive line coach Weber State University

1989-94 Defensive line coach Weber State University

1995 Special teams coordinator, linebackers coach Northern Arizona University

1996-98 Defensive coordinator Northern Arizona University

1999-2002 Defensive line coach Washington State University

2003-06 Defensive coordinator, defensive line coach Washington State University

Personal

Wife, Molly

Sons, Jack and Daniel

Born July 24, 1966

Hometown Colorado Springs, Colo.

High school Wasson High School, 1984

College Weber State University, 1988