Connell Maynor – Winston-Salem State to Hampton
Connell Maynor experienced substantial success at Winston-Salem State University (WSSU) at the Division II level. From 2010 to 2013, he led the Rams to a 45-6 overall record and a 29-2 mark in the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA). Under his guidance, WSSU secured three consecutive CIAA championships and made three straight NCAA Division II playoff appearances. The Rams reached the NCAA Semifinals in 2011 and the Division II National Championship game in 2012, finishing as national runners-up. They also captured the HBCU National Football Championships in 2011 and 2012 (Wikipedia) (SWAC).
Maynor’s first season at Hampton University in 2014 was marked by an effort to rebuild the program. The Pirates finished with a 3-9 record, which reflected the challenges of transitioning to a Division I program. Despite the initial struggle, Maynor was able to improve the team’s performance over the next few years, achieving a 20-25 overall record during his tenure. He led Hampton to two winning seasons, including a 6-5 record and a 5-3 mark in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC) in 2017 (Alabama A&M Athletics) (SWAC). He resurfaced at another FCS school in Alabama A&M where he is currently 34-26 (24-17 in SWAC play) with one conference title.
Damon Wilson – Bowie State to Morgan State
Damon Wilson’s transition to Morgan State University in 2022 brought high expectations as he aimed to revitalize the Bears’ football program at the FCS level. In his first season, Wilson faced the challenge of rebuilding a team that had struggled in recent years. Despite the hurdles, he led Morgan State to a 4-7 record in the 2022 season, a notable improvement from their 2-9 record in 2021 before his arrival. The 2023 season saw further progress, with Wilson guiding the Bears to a 6-5 record, their first winning season since 2014. His ability to instill a winning culture and attract top-tier recruits has started to show dividends, as evidenced by the team’s improved performance and competitiveness within the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC). Wilson’s strategic approach and dedication to developing a strong team ethos have set a promising foundation for Morgan State’s future success in the FCS ranks.
Damon Wilson’s transition to Morgan State University in 2022 brought high expectations as he aimed to revitalize the Bears’ football program at the FCS level. In his first season, Wilson faced the challenge of rebuilding a team that had struggled in recent years. Despite the hurdles, he led Morgan State to a 4-7 record in the 2022 season, a notable improvement from their 2-9 record in 2021 before his arrival. The 2023 season saw further progress, with Wilson guiding the Bears to a 6-5 record, their first winning season since 2014. His ability to instill a winning culture and attract top-tier recruits has started to show dividends, as evidenced by the team’s improved performance and competitiveness within the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC). Wilson’s strategic approach and dedication to developing a strong team ethos have set a promising foundation for Morgan State’s future success in the FCS ranks.