Miles College has officially appointed Chris Goode as its new head football coach, a pivotal move to enhance the Golden Bears’ program. Effective immediately, Goode brings a wealth of experience from his time as a standout player at the University of Alabama and a seven-year career in the National Football League.
“We are excited for the future of Miles College football under the direction of Coach Chris Goode and are confident that Coach Goode’s leadership will bring continued success to Miles College football,” said Fred Watson, the college’s director of athletics.
Goode will be introduced formally at a press conference scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 7, at 11:30 a.m. The event will take place at the Williams Welcome and Admissions Center on campus and will be live-streamed for fans via the Miles College Facebook page.
This appointment marks Goode’s first head coaching position at the collegiate level. After concluding his playing career, he transitioned into coaching as the defensive coordinator for the Birmingham Steeldogs in the Arena Football League. Moreover, Goode remains committed to developing young athletes through his initiative, Goode Elite Prep, a post-graduate academy focused on nurturing student-athletes.
With a robust network and connections locally and nationally, Goode is poised to enhance recruiting efforts and fundraising for the football program while raising the profile of Miles College within the athletics community. “Chris Goode’s leadership and dedication to student development makes him the ideal choice to guide our football program forward,” said Miles College President Bobbie Knight. “We are excited to see how his guidance and vision will propel our student-athletes to continued success both on the field and in the classroom.”
Goode’s Playing Career
A graduate of the University of Alabama, Goode was drafted in the 10th round of the 1987 NFL Draft by the Indianapolis Colts. Throughout his time with the Colts, he recorded impressive statistics, including seven interceptions, six fumble recoveries, and two sacks over 96 regular-season games. Following his retirement, Goode has successfully engaged in various business ventures and served as the president of the National Football League Players Association Birmingham Chapter.
Under Goode’s helm, the Golden Bears aim to maintain their status as a premier football program in Division II. Last season, Miles College achieved an impressive 10-3 record, clinching the Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference title and advancing to the second round of the NCAA Division II playoffs, achieving national ranking for the first time in the program’s history.