Terrence Graves had been a part of the Southern teaching workers for 193 video games for elements of 12 seasons in his 31-year profession as an assistant.
On Wednesday, Southern named Graves head coach. It was a “hallelujah” revelation for a person who had dreamed of main a workforce.
“From Norfolk, Virginia, to Baton Rouge, Louisiana,” Graves mentioned throughout the introductory press convention. “Not unhealthy for just a little boy dreaming in Park Place, Virginia.”
Graves, who was appointed interim head coach for the Bayou Traditional after Eric Dooley was fired simply shy of his second full season at Southern, mentioned he was notified on Tuesday that he can be the twenty first head coach in program historical past.
“Keep in mind after I stood up right here and mentioned if I get the (everlasting) job, ‘hallelujah,’ and if I didn’t, ‘hallelujah’? Nicely, ‘hallelujah;’ I acquired the job.”
Whereas carrying a two-piece swimsuit and a SU hat cocked to the aspect, Graves touted why he thought Southern selected him when it appeared he didn’t match all the factors.
“Why Terrence Graves? I’m glad you requested,” he mentioned. “I’m ready, I’m certified, I’m licensed. I’m destined, and I’m a winner. I’m a builder of champions.”
Athletic director Roman Banks mentioned the search committee interviews varied candidates for the job, together with some outdoors HBCU soccer circles. However Graves was spectacular in preliminary conversations to the purpose the place Banks needed to rethink whether or not Southern’s subsequent coach was already on campus.
“One thing stored bringing us again to him,” Banks mentioned. “He’s an individual who can befriend our fan base, is approachable, and nonetheless instructions numerous respect.
Graves is tentatively anticipated to earn $250,000 yearly as a base wage over three years, in response to the Southern College Board of Supervisors paperwork.
Southern completed the 2023 season 6-5, only one recreation behind Prairie View for the SWAC West championship.
Graves mentioned the Jaguars are “not far-off” from competing for championships. He mentioned the method “isn’t a rebuild. It’s a reload.”
“We’re going to forged our nets out nationally and internationally. If there are some on the moon, we’re coming to get them, too,” mentioned Graves.
“Some we’ll recruit again. The switch portal is school soccer at this time. I inform them if you’re going to depart, all the time have a plan. We’ll help them in any approach we will. It’s important to recruit the fellows in your workforce and the fellows to carry to your workforce.”
