Volusia County

Bethune-Cookman University announces its new head football coach

DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. — Bethune-Cookman University announced the appointment of its new head football coach.

On Monday, the BCU athletics director announced that Raymond Woodie will the 16th head coach of Bethune-Cookman Football.

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“A new era at Bethune-Cookman University begins today,” said Interim President Lawrence M. Drake II, Ph.D. “Word of our pending new leadership has been hard to contain, so we are thrilled to officially welcome Raymond back home to Bethune-Cookman University. Throughout our search process, we stressed the need for a leader who understands our university’s history, traditions, and values, in addition to possessing firm athletic leadership prowess. Coach Woodie embodies each of these qualities.”

The 49-year-old was a four-year letter-winner as a linebacker and 1996 graduate of Bethune-Cookman College and most recently was an assistant coach at Florida Atlantic University.

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Woodie also previously coached at Florida State University, the University of Oregon and the University of South Florida.

According to a news release from BCU, Woodie has been recognized as one of the premier recruiters in college football.

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“We are elated to have Raymond Woodie, Jr. return to Bethune-Cookman University to lead our storied football program,” Director of Athletics Reggie Theus said. We felt confident in his experience, his leadership, and his ability to embrace the spirit of our founder, Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune in this 100th year of B-CU football. We are locked in the vision for providing a championship culture through his

detailed plan for recruiting academically talented student-athletes, along with a sustained desire to provide a high-level experience. It’s evidently clear why Coach Woodie has had terrific success in his journey, and we look forward to his return to Daytona Beach and starting this new era.”

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