(St. Louis, MO) – Declaring he wants to hang banners in the arena, new Jacksonville State Head Coach Ray Harper hit all the right chords in his introduction press conference. The former Western Kentucky coach, who played against JSU during their Division 2 championship years says he is devoted to helping young men develop as citizens and winning championships.
Harper has won four national championships (two NAIA & 2 Division 2). In five seasons at WKU, his record was 89-64. His overall record, covering those three collegiate levels is 431-127.
As a player, Harper was on the losing side of the JSU’s 1986 Division 2 national championship game victory. He says he believes the championship foundation has been laid for the Gamecocks, and he hopes to build upon it, with what he calls “the 3-Ds”.
Calling himself a relationship oriented coach, Harper says his teams will work hard and will be prepared. He’s hoping to cultivate a winning culture through what he calls ‘playing the game the right way.’ Harper says he understands the OVC, and is ready to compete.
With former coach James Green leaving some players that were being recruited and were on the current roster may not be a part of ‘Gamecock Nation’. Rumored amongst those departing is highly touted Cameron Biedscheid.
Harper’s first opportunity to work with his new team is this week.
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Editor: Video courtesy of the OVC Digital Network.
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