LIVINGSTON, AL. (Queen City Newsfeed) – The University of West Alabama (UWA) has announced Scott Cochran as the new head coach of the UWA Tigers football team. Cochran, a highly experienced coach with a proven track record, will bring his passion and expertise to the Tigers’ football program.
Cochran joins UWA after a distinguished career as a strength and conditioning coach at Louisiana State University (LSU), the University of Alabama, and as a special teams coach at the University of Georgia. He began his career at LSU, where he developed his coaching philosophy and helped lay the foundation for the program’s success. At Alabama, Cochran played a pivotal role in the development of the Crimson Tide’s football program, contributing to several national championships and SEC titles. His tenure at Georgia further solidified his reputation as a top-tier coach, where he helped the Bulldogs achieve considerable success.
Throughout his career, Cochran has been instrumental in the development of over 50 athletes who went on to be first-round draft picks, and more than 200 who were drafted into the NFL. He has been part of teams that won eight national championships, showcasing his ability to contribute to winning programs at the highest level.
In addition to his football achievements, Cochran has faced personal struggles that have shaped his approach to coaching. He has emerged from these challenges with a renewed sense of purpose and a deep commitment to mentoring young athletes. Cochran’s experience has given him a unique perspective on the importance of mental and emotional well-being in achieving success, both on and off the field.
Recently, Cochran has dedicated his time to traveling across the country, speaking to athletes and organizations as part of his nonprofit, the American Addiction Recovery Association. His work focuses on promoting mental health, resilience, and recovery, further demonstrating his commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of young people.
“We are incredibly excited to welcome Coach Scott Cochran to the University of West Alabama,” said UWA President Dr. Todd G. Fritch. “His dynamic coaching style, combined with his dedication to fostering both athletic and academic excellence, aligns perfectly with our values. We are confident that he will build on our program’s strong foundation and lead our student-athletes to success on and off the field.”
Cochran shared his excitement about joining the Tigers, stating, “I am honored and grateful for the opportunity to lead the University of West Alabama football program as head coach. UWA has a rich tradition of athletic excellence, and I look forward to working with our talented student-athletes, dedicated staff, and passionate community to continue that legacy. Together, we will strive for greatness and make our supporters proud.”
He added, “My own personal struggles have given me a unique perspective that allows me to expertly develop players and prepare them to go to the next level. I get to know players better than they know themselves, and I feel that I have something to give back through head coaching. This is more than just a job for me; it’s a calling to help young men grow both on and off the field.”
As head coach, Cochran will focus on developing a comprehensive program that not only emphasizes competitive success but also promotes the personal growth and academic achievement of his players. His “tough love” approach to coaching ensures that student-athletes are prepared for life beyond football.
Cochran takes the helm of UWA football following a 9-2 season for the Tigers, which marked the team’s best record in college football in Alabama in 2024. This season also marked the conclusion of a 10-season tenure for Brett Gilliland, who is now UWA’s Athletic Director.
“We are excited to see the positive impact he will have on our team and our community,” said Gilliland. “Scott Cochran’s passion for the game, his ability to connect with players, and his commitment to developing student-athletes as individuals all align with the values of our program. We are confident that his guidance will continue to foster a winning culture both on and off the field.”
UWA has long been a force in the Gulf South Conference, with notable NFL standouts such as Tyreek Hill, Malcolm Butler, and Seth Roberts. The program has earned one national championship, two Alabama Collegiate Conference championships, and four Gulf South Conference championships.
A press conference will be held at UWA’s Campora Athletic Complex in Tiger Stadium on Friday, February 7, at 10 a.m.
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