HAMPTON, Va. – Hampton University's head football coach Donovan Rose has announced changes to his coaching staff.
 
“As a program, we have to be on one accord,” Rose said. “Everybody must have the same heartbeat and work toward one common goal, achieving and maintaining Hampton University's Standard of Excellence.”
 
Earnest Wilson, who just completed his first season as offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach for the Pirates, will retain the offensive coordinator position as well as running back coach in 2013.
 
In addition, David Banks will leave his post as running backs coach to coach the team's wide receivers. Former wide receivers coach Lamar Thomas will not be retained.
 
“Offensively, we must focus on teaching fundamentals,” Rose said.
 
The running game was a bright spot for the Pirates this past season, as senior Jeremiah Schwartz (Orlando, Fla.) led the MEAC in rushing and became the first Pirate to rush for 1,000 yards in a season (1,043 yards) since LaMarcus Coker in 2009.
 
Hampton was also below its usual level of performance on the defensive side of the ball, giving up 30.4 points and 362.2 yards of total offense per game last season. As a result, defensive coordinator Keith Goganious will not be retained.
 
“Defensively, personnel adjustments must be made as well,” Rose said. “We have to get back on track.  I felt this year we abandoned our philosophy of playing smart, fast, and physical.”
 
Overall, Rose believes these changes will help the Pirates bounce back in 2013, improving upon a 2012 season that saw Hampton finish 3-7 overall and 3-5 in the MEAC. Over his four years as head coach, Rose is 21-22 with the Pirates.
 
For more information on Hampton University football, please call the Office of Sports Information at (757) 727-5811, or visit the official Pirates website at www.hamptonpirates.com.