Alcorn introduces Fred McNair as new head football coach
Alcorn State University chose one of its own to continue the winning ways of the Braves football team.
The Braves announced today at the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame in Jackson that Fred McNair will take the ranks as head football coach for the 2016 season. McNair, who was responsible for turning quarterbacks John Gibbs Jr. and Lenorris Footman into forces to be reckoned with on the field, previously served as the team’s assistant head coach and quarterbacks coach for four years.
Athletics Director Derek Horne showed confidence in McNair’s ability to keep the team’s momentum going.
“Fred McNair answers all of the qualifications that we look for,” said Horne. “He’s an Alcornite, players coach who displays humility and a family man. One thing that stands out is the respect that he receives from his peers.”
An emotional McNair humbly accepted his new role with the football team.
“It’s been a long journey, but I’m finally here,” said McNair. “I’m humbled for the decision you all made to make me the next head coach. This is my alma mater. I played here, coached here and now its time for me to be a leader of this program.”
McNair applauded his coaching staff for staying by his side during the hiring process.
“I have some tremendous guys. I appreciate the staff because they have stood by me throughout this whole process. Behind every great head coach is a great staff. Those guys should be recognized for everything this program has achieved. This program is in championship form and my goal is to continue to build this championship form.”
McNair also credited his players for their dedication and support. He pointed out that he and his staff not only teach the players how to perform on the field, but also prepare them for success in the classroom.
“Our players make coaching easy for us because they successfully execute the game plans to their best ability. It’s not always about football. We talk to our guys about making the right decisions, being successful in school and getting their degrees on time.”
Some of Alcorn’s faithful alumni expressed how they feel about McNair becoming the new head football coach. Zelmarine Murphy, a 1966 graduate of Alcorn, said that she is happy with the university’s decision to promote McNair.
“I am ecstatic about our new coach,” said Murphy. “Coach McNair is knowledgeable about the game of football and he will be loyal to us because he is a Brave. I expect to go to the next level under his leadership. Coach McNair needs all of our support by ‘Packing the Jack’ every Saturday.”
Karen Matlock, a 1980 Alcorn graduate, has faith in McNair’s ability to keep the Braves’ progress going.
“I am super excited to have Coach McNair as our head coach,” said Matlock. “He deserved it and we’re ready to support him in anyway we can. He knows all about championships and winning and we’re just going to keep on going.”
