Florida A&M University‘s VP of Intercollegiate Athletics Tiffani-Dawn Sykes told the Board of Trustees she recommends the university hire a search firm to find it’s next football coach.
The announcement comes after her recommended candidate, Shawn Gibbs renewed his contract with Fort Valley State University. Gibbs was rumored to potentially replace Simmons, who announced his resignation January, as the next head football coach.
According to Steven Gaither at HBCU Gameday, VP Sykes apologized for the communication break down on her end previously in regards to the coaching search. She also stated, moving forward, that she would like for the BOT to work with her and President Dr. Larry Robinson in finding FAMU’s next head coach.
She stated she hoped to have a new head coach before signing day.
The announcement also comes after the departure of FAMU’s recruiting ace, Devin Rispress, who announced his resignation last Thursday and defensive coordinator, Ryan Smith, who has reportedly accepted a new position at Murray State.
The recent departures adds to the growing concern for the current state of FAMU’s football team amid head coach Willie Simmons’ recent departure this New Years.
Simmons announced his new position at Duke on January 1. James Colzie has been named interim coach in the meantime. However, no word or announcement has been made on a permanent replacement for the recent open positions.
