LIVINGSTON, Ala. - With his second year with the University of West Alabama Women's Soccer program just weeks away, Head Coach Sam Wilson announced the hiring of Darius Rashid as the team's Assistant Coach. 

Hailing from London, England, Rashid joins the Tigers staff with a vast of experience both as a player and coach at a young age.

"I am honored and deeply grateful for the opportunity to join the coaching staff at the University of West Alabama," said Rashid. "I look forward to contributing to the continued success of this outstanding program."

Before signing on the dotted line to be Wilson's top assistant, Rashid was the Academy Director for Alabama South FC while serving as Head Coach for Montgomery Academy High School's Women's Team. As Head Coach for the 7A High School, Rashid led Montgomery Academy to a Final Four Appearance in 2024 and an Elite Eight berth in 2025.

Before achieving Full-Time coaching jobs at the High School and FC level, Rashid served as a Volunteer Coach at AUM in 2022 and Huntingdon College in 2023 and 2024. 

While he's had a lot of success on the sidelines as a coach, Rashid stood out as a player from 2017-2021. The London native kicked off his college career with Northwest Kansas CC in 2017 and immediately made an impact. After his freshman year, Rashid was named Freshman of the Year, before winning the distinction of Player of the Year in his sophomore campaign. After making a statement on the JUCO Circuit, Rashid transferred to AUM where he finished out his career. 

Rashid was an instant starter for the Warhawks, logging over 2,100 minutes over the next three seasons. In 2021, the Defender led AUM to the Elite Eight of the NCAA Tournament, making it the best season in Auburn Montgomery Men's Soccer history. 

Rashid is a big addition to UWA's staff as the program looks to take a leap in Year Two of the Sam Wilson era. 

"I would like to extend my sincere thanks to Coach Sam Wilson and Athletic Director Brett Gilliland for entrusting me with this opportunity," Rashid closed.