SALEM, Virginia. – New Roanoke College Athletic Director Curtis Campbell spoke to a crowd of dozens at the Roanoke Valley Sports Club Monday evening. The Pulaski County native discussed his personal life, his journey to and through college athletics and, of course, the hot topic: the recently reestablished Roanoke College football program.
“We’re getting our facilities ready on campus: locker rooms, weight room, training room, coaches’ offices,” Campbell said in an interview with 10 Sports.
Although it has been an exciting time, Campbell says it has been stressful. Although he has more than 20 years of experience leading college athletics, this is the first opportunity he has had to lead the startup of a football program.
“The goal is to be ready to play by fall 2025,” Campbell said.
As Campbell answered questions, he gave some thoughts on the head coaching search and more. There were over 100 candidates for the head coaching position, but an internal search advisory committee of 7-8 people narrowed it down to 4 finalists – all of whom were active coaches. Campbell said interviews will take place soon with the goal of naming a head coach in November after that coach’s respective season concludes. Roanoke aims to initially hire 4 full-time assistant coaches and add part-time coaches and volunteers.
As for interest in football, Campbell noted that some current Roanoke College student-athletes have requested to participate in tryouts when the time comes. The college hopes to welcome approximately 40 student-athletes by next spring with the goal of hosting simulated games in the fall of 2024.
As for Campbell, he’s thrilled to be back close to home. The Pulaski County native has had a whirlwind journey to get where he is today – his most recent stop being at Morehouse College where he has been since 2020.
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