NORFOLK, Va. — Michael Vick was welcomed with cheers of “Coach” and “Let’s go Spartans” as he was introduced on Monday as the new head coach for Norfolk State’s football team. This marks a significant homecoming for the renowned former NFL quarterback and a high-profile appointment for a program that has faced challenges in recent seasons.
Hailing from Newport News, just a short drive away, Vick donned a Norfolk State letterman jacket and cap during his introduction, which attracted many supporters including notable Hampton Roads athletes such as Allen Iverson and Bruce Smith.
The announcement followed a swift process that took even Vick by surprise. He recounted a recent conversation with his high school coach expressing his desire to coach football in the coming years. Shortly after, he received an unexpected call from Aaron Rouse, a former player at Virginia Tech and now a Virginia state senator, along with Norfolk State athletic director Melody Webb, who gauged his interest in leading the Spartans.
“It wasn’t an easy choice,” Vick explained, acknowledging the personal considerations regarding his family and the lifestyle changes that coaching would entail. However, he emphasized the opportunity to serve young men in his community was a motivating factor.
Vick’s football journey began with a standout performance at Virginia Tech, leading the team to the national championship as a redshirt freshman before being drafted first overall by the Atlanta Falcons in 2001. In his six seasons with Atlanta, he earned three Pro Bowl selections and was known for transforming the quarterback role with his exceptional athleticism.
However, Vick’s career faced significant hurdles due to his 2007 conviction related to a dogfighting operation. He served 21 months in federal prison but resumed his professional football career in 2009, eventually retiring in 2017 and taking on roles as an NFL analyst and animal rights advocate.
While Vick’s past controversies were not directly discussed during the introduction, Webb highlighted his inspiring story of overcoming adversity and personal challenges, reinforcing the values that Norfolk State aims to instill in its athletes. “His journey exemplifies resilience and a commitment to personal growth,” Webb noted.
Vick steps into his role without prior coaching experience, joining a growing list of former NFL stars, such as Deion Sanders and Eddie George, who have transitioned into coaching at HBCU programs. Norfolk State has only made one playoff appearance since becoming an FCS program in 1997, and the last five head coaches have posted losing records, including Dawson Odoms, who was let go after a 15-30 record over four seasons.
Nevertheless, school officials are optimistic about Vick’s hiring. Webb remarked on how Vick’s name has a global recognition that can transform the program. Kim Brown, the school rector, expressed hope for a new chapter, stating, “Today we turn the corner and embrace a new season for our football program.”
As for Vick, he is committed to putting in the hard work necessary for success and intends to focus on recruiting talent from his home region, known for producing skilled athletes. Reflecting on his ties to Norfolk State, he mentioned attending games during his own youth football days and remaining invested in the program, saying, “There’s a lot of pressure being back in my hometown, but I’ve always thrived off it.”
