WSSU welcomes home new head football coach, Tony Woodbury, at press conference

Winston-Salem State University Chancellor Bonita J. Brown officially introduced the university’s new head football coach, Tony Woodbury, during a press conference held Dec. 8 in the Anderson Center’s McNeill Ballroom.

Woodbury, a WSSU alumnus, former NFL quarterback, and seasoned professional, collegiate, and high school coach, was selected from a competitive pool of 100 applicants.

“It’s a great day for Winston-Salem State,” Brown said, calling on the community to rally around the program as it enters a new era. “Not only show up for the games but show up for our students, celebrate us in the community, bring your friends to the game and join us in this effort.”

Woodbury opened his remarks with three simple words: “Well, I’m home.”
A native of the Happy Hill Gardens neighborhood, he said he intends to make a meaningful impact both on campus and in his community.

At the heart of his vision is student success beyond athletics.

“I’m not really worried about on the field – that’s going to take care of itself,” Woodbury said. “We’re going to be very disciplined; we’re going to play fast. But the biggest thing is to get these young men to graduate.”

Woodbury’s focus will be education, noting that not everyone will follow the same path he did. He left college early to pursue an NFL career, but eventually returned to WSSU to complete his bachelor’s degree in sport management, a credential that opened the door to coaching opportunities.

WSSU Interim Athletics Director Eric Burns said the university is proud to bring Woodbury back to lead the program.

“We are honored to welcome back Coach Woodbury,” Burns said. “The four-year starter returns home with a wealth of knowledge and an unwavering commitment to restore the standard of WSSU athletics.”

Click here to watch a recording of the livestreamed press conference.

Click here for photos.