West Alabama Signs Gilliland to Multi-Year Agreement

LIVINGSTON – On the heels of a Gulf South Conference championship and the first 10-win season at the University of West Alabama in 42 years, UWA Director of Athletics Stan Williamson has announced a new multi-year contract for Tiger head football coach Brett Gilliland.

"Coach Brett Gilliland and staff have been building this UWA Tiger Football program into one of the strongest programs in NCAA Division II over the last several years, culminating with the 2017 Gulf South Conference Championship and number one ranking in the NCAA Division II South Region," Williamson said. "We are happy that Coach Gilliland and staff are committed to this program and continuing to do things the right way as we move into the future. We look forward to continued athletic and academic success of our UWA student-athletes through these and the many other fine coaches at the University of West Alabama."

Since returning to his alma mater prior to the 2014 season, Gilliland has posted a 29-17 record and led the Tigers back into the NCAA Division II Football Playoffs for the first time since 2012. In addition, graduation rates for West Alabama football players have exceeded 80 percent for the last two seasons. A dozen football Tigers earned their degrees at the Fall 2017 commencement and 14 more are expected to graduate in May.

Along with increased victories and graduation rates, Gilliland and his staff have played a huge role in increased alumni involvement. There continues to be an increasing reciprocal commitment between West Alabama football, the university and local community, with Gilliland often leading the way. As a direct result, financial support has also increased.

"I greatly appreciate the faith the administration has shown in my staff and me. It is my honor to continue to lead this program and continue on the foundation that is in place," Gilliland said. "The success we have had on the field has been rewarding, but the most important growth to me is watching our players develop in every area of their lives as they go through our program. "

"Over the past four years the culture in our program has shown great growth. I love coaching at this university and helping build young men within our Brotherhood," Gilliland said. "We have seen great success in the graduation of our student-athletes and that remains our number one focus."

The 2017 Tigers set 13 school records on the way to the NCAA Division II Quarterfinal Round as Gilliland worked his way toward the top of the UWA all-time coaching wins list. He needs just three victories to move past Frank North (1979-84) as the all-time Tiger coaching wins leader.

After posting a 5-6 record in his first season, Gilliland has led UWA to a pair of 7-4 records in front of this year's 10-3 mark.

Although the Annual Red and White Spring Game was last Saturday, the Tigers will officially finish spring drills Thursday. The season opener is set for August 30 against Lenoir-Rhyne, the first of three consecutive home games to open the 2018 season.

Print Friendly Version