Fort Valley State Picks John Morgan as Head Football Coach
February 19, 2003
Fort Valley State University's search for a head coach ended today when the
school announced the hiring of John D. Morgan as its new head coach. Morgan
will be the eleventh man to pace the sidelines of Wildcat Stadium. Morgan
replaces former Wildcat head coach Kent Schoolfield.
John
Morgan
Before coming to Fort Valley, Morgan spent the past three seasons
at Bowie State University, the last two as associate head coach.
While at Bowie State he developed the Bulldogs' defense into
one of the best units in Division II. This past season, Bowie
State's defense was 2nd in the NCAA, giving up 221.4 yards per
game. Bowie State's defense was also ranked 10th in the country
in scoring defense and 10th in rushing defense. That effort
helped to propel the 'Dogs into the CIAA Championship game during
the 2002 football campaign. Morgan's previous stops in the coaching
ranks include stints at Morgan State University and Salisbury
State University.
Prior to entering the coaching profession, Morgan played his collegiate
football at Bowie State. An All CIAA performer his Freshman season, Morgan
became one of the top players in that league. His play was instrumental for
Bowie State as the Bulldogs won the CIAAís Eastern Division and went on to
claim the CIAA title.
After graduating from Bowie State with a bachelor of science degree in
sociology/criminal justice, Morgan then became a graduate assistant at his
alma mater, where he earned a masters of education in guidance and
counseling before moving on to Salisbury State where he served as defensive
coordinator for two seasons.
"I'm very happy to be here," said Morgan. "Fort Valley State University has
a rich football tradition that is one of the best in the country. It's
reputation for turning out productive members of society as well as
outstanding athletes is very impressive. I am confident that I and the
members of my staff will keep that legacy going."
Last year, the Wildcats were 7-4 and finished in third place in the SIAC.
