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By Betsy Compton
UWA Athletics

The University of West Alabama (UWA) has hired Scott Cochran as the new head coach of the UWA Tigers football team.

Cochran brings a wealth of experience, a proven track record of success, and an infectious enthusiasm for the game that promises to elevate the Tigers to new heights.

Cochran joins the UWA family after a distinguished career as a strength and conditioning coach at LSU and Alabama and special teams coach at Georgia. He began his career at LSU, where he laid the foundation for his coaching philosophy and contributed to the program’s success.

At Alabama, he played a crucial role in the development of the Crimson Tide’s football program, contributing to multiple national championships and SEC titles. His tenure at Georgia further solidified his reputation as a top-tier coach, where he helped the Bulldogs achieve significant success on the field.

Throughout his career, Cochran has developed more than 50 athletes who went on to be first-round draft picks and more than 200 athletes who were drafted into the NFL. His accomplishments and honors include being part of teams that won eight national championships, showcasing his ability to contribute to winning programs at the highest level.

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Cochran’s journey has been marked by personal growth and resilience. He has boldly emerged from a period of significant personal struggle with a renewed sense of purpose and a deep commitment to mentoring young athletes. His experiences have equipped him with a unique perspective and a profound understanding of the importance of mental and emotional well-being in achieving success.

Recently, Coach 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 efforts have been focused on promoting mental health, resilience, and recovery, further demonstrating his commitment to making a positive impact both on and off the field.

“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 expressed his enthusiasm 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.

“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 emphasizes not only competitive success but also the personal growth and academic achievement of his players. His holistic, “tough love” approach to coaching ensures that student-athletes are prepared for life beyond the gridiron.

Cochran takes the helm of UWA football following a 9-2 season for the Tigers, noted the best record in college football in Alabama in 2024, which also marked the end of a 10-season chapter as head coach for now Athletic Director Brett Gilliland.

“Scott Cochran’s passion for the game, along with his ability to connect with players and his commitment to developing student-athletes as individuals, all align with the values of our program,” Gilliland said. “We are confident that his guidance will allow UWA Football to continue to foster a winning culture both on and off the field. We are excited to see the positive impact he will have on our team and our community.”

UWA has long been regarded as a force to be reckoned with in the Gulf South Conference, producing NFL standouts such as Tyreek Hill, Malcolm Butler, and Seth Roberts. The program boasts one national championship, two Alabama Collegiate Conference championships, and four Gulf South Conference championships.