Myrtle Beach, SC, January 5, 2026
Coastal Carolina University’s football program has strengthened its coaching staff for the upcoming season under Head Coach Ryan Beard. Key staff announcements highlight a significant restructuring aimed at improving recruitment, performance, and strategic play. The additions and promotions reflect a commitment to excellence, signaling a bright future for the Chanticleers as they prepare for competitive challenges ahead. The new appointments span across various football operations, emphasizing player development and tactical execution.
Myrtle Beach, SC — Coastal Carolina University’s football program, under the leadership of head coach Ryan Beard, has significantly bolstered its operational and on-field coaching capabilities with a series of key staff announcements in early January 2026. These strategic additions and promotions across the support, recruiting, strength and conditioning, offensive, defensive, and special teams units underscore a robust commitment to competitive excellence and player development as the Chanticleers prepare for the 2026 season.
The comprehensive restructuring highlights a proactive approach by the university to fortify every facet of its football operations, aiming to enhance recruitment, optimize athletic performance, and refine on-field strategies. This proactive investment in human capital is poised to elevate the program’s standing within the collegiate athletics landscape and further cement Coastal Carolina’s reputation for initiative and disciplined growth.
Chanticleer Leadership Strengthened for 2026 Season
Head Coach Ryan Beard, who took the helm in December 2025, has swiftly assembled a formidable team, finalizing the program’s operational and personnel structure. This rapid and thorough overhaul demonstrates a clear vision for the future, emphasizing the value of experienced leadership and specialized expertise across all departments. The appointments reflect a drive to foster a culture of high performance and self-reliance, critical elements for sustained success in modern college football.
Strategic Hires Bolster Support and Recruiting Operations
On January 3, 2026, Coastal Carolina Football announced crucial additions and promotions within its support and recruiting staff. Max Franey was named Chief of Staff, bringing extensive experience in coordinating team logistics, travel, and daily operational needs from his previous role as Director of Football Operations at Missouri State University. Franey’s background also includes supporting an FCS playoff-qualifying team at Gardner-Webb University.
CJ Schrimpf, a former Chanticleer student-athlete, earned a promotion to Director of Football Operations, showcasing the program’s commitment to recognizing internal talent and dedication. Schrimpf had previously served as coordinator of player development and operations since July 2024 and provided volunteer support since September 2023. His playing career at Coastal Carolina included All-Sun Belt Conference recognition and selection to the Patrick Mannelly Award watch list.
The recruiting efforts will also see continuity and new blood. Braelyn Yown returns as Director of On-Campus Recruiting, Wilson Schiller as Assistant Director of Player Personnel, Chris Parrott as Coordinator of Scouting, and Alara Oran as Operations and Recruiting Assistant, all providing stability to key recruitment functions. New analytical power comes from Austin Westbrook, a graduate assistant for defensive backs from Missouri State, and Armstrong, who joins as Scouting Coordinator after serving at the University of Oklahoma. Trey Carter and Grayson McCall, both returning as offensive analysts, further strengthen the strategic planning aspect of the team.
Elevating Player Performance Through Strength and Conditioning
The football performance unit also saw significant enhancements with the announcement of the strength and conditioning staff on January 3, 2026. Dr. Jackson Morris was appointed Director of Football Performance, bringing experience from Missouri State and Tulane. His background includes four years at Mercer University, where he progressed from intern to associate director of strength and conditioning and played a role in the development and implementation of the department’s nutrition operation.
Carter Rowland joins as Associate Director of Football Performance, previously serving as assistant director of athletic performance and nutrition coordinator at Arkansas State University, where he directly supported the football program and managed athlete nutrition. Greg Noel rounds out the new staff as Assistant Director, with experience at Missouri State and Florida Atlantic University. This investment in a specialized performance unit highlights the program’s emphasis on fostering individual athletic growth and maximizing potential through scientific and disciplined training methodologies.
Special Teams and Offensive Staff Bolstered for Impact
On December 31, 2025, Coastal Carolina appointed Nelson Fishback as the Special Teams Coordinator and Assistant Quarterbacks Coach. Fishback arrives with a reputation for developing highly effective special teams units, previously contributing to New Mexico State’s special teams ranking among the top Group of Five programs nationally. His focus will be on player development and execution, a critical component often dictating game outcomes through initiative and precision.
The offensive coaching staff, announced on January 1, 2026, features a blend of experience and innovative leadership. Nick Petrino leads as Offensive Coordinator and Quarterbacks Coach. He is joined by Nick Gilbert, who takes on the Offensive Line Coach role after contributing to the University of Michigan’s 2023 National Championship team, coaching offensive linemen who were Joe Moore Award semifinalists. Everette Sands, a proven developer of running back talent, joins as Running Backs Coach, having coached NFL draft picks at South Carolina. Ronnie Fouch will coach Tight Ends, and David Clowney will oversee Wide Receivers, both bringing strong track records in player development and offensive production.
Defensive Unit Revitalized for Aggressive Play
The defensive coaching staff was announced on January 2, 2026, signaling a fresh approach to the Chanticleers’ defensive strategies. L.D. Scott has been named Defensive Coordinator and Defensive Line Coach, bringing a wealth of experience in player development and defensive production. He is joined by Connor Benado as Linebackers Coach, Michael Downing as Defensive Tackles Coach, Tramain Thomas as Safeties Coach, and Chris Franklin as Defensive Backs/Corners Coach. These coaches collectively aim to build a cohesive defense that emphasizes successful recruiting and aims for improved defensive rankings and overall team performance, fostering a competitive and disciplined unit.
Implications for Myrtle Beach and South Carolina Athletics
The comprehensive staffing changes at Coastal Carolina University represent a significant investment in the future of college football in Myrtle Beach, SC. By attracting experienced coaches and operational staff from respected programs nationwide, the university enhances its athletic competitiveness and elevates the local sports scene. This strategic commitment to excellence not only promises exciting seasons for Chanticleer fans but also contributes to the region’s economic vitality through increased sports tourism and community engagement. The emphasis on responsible growth and the pursuit of athletic achievement mirrors the spirit of entrepreneurial drive and community self-reliance often celebrated in the local economy.
The university’s proactive stance in assembling a top-tier staff demonstrates a belief in the power of private initiative and strategic investment to achieve ambitious goals. Success on the field translates into heightened visibility for the university and the broader Myrtle Beach area, drawing attention, talent, and resources that benefit the entire state’s athletic and economic landscape.
Looking Ahead: Sustaining Momentum
With a fully assembled and highly experienced coaching and support staff, Coastal Carolina Football is poised to build on a strong foundation for the 2026 season. The concerted effort to bring in talent and promote dedicated individuals reflects a commitment to responsible growth and a competitive spirit. This strategic investment in personnel is expected to not only refine on-field performance but also attract future generations of student-athletes who embody the values of hard work and individual perseverance.
Myrtle Beach, SC residents and Chanticleer fans are encouraged to support the revitalized program. Engaging with university athletics is a direct way to contribute to the community’s strength and the continued growth of a program dedicated to excellence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When were the latest coaching staff announcements made for Coastal Carolina Football?
The latest coaching staff announcements for Coastal Carolina Football were made between December 31, 2025, and January 3, 2026.
Who is the head football coach for Coastal Carolina University?
Ryan Beard is the head football coach for Coastal Carolina University.
Who was appointed as the new Chief of Staff for Coastal Carolina Football?
Max Franey was appointed as the new Chief of Staff for Coastal Carolina Football.
Who is the new Director of Football Performance for Coastal Carolina Football?
Dr. Jackson Morris is the new Director of Football Performance for Coastal Carolina Football.
Who was hired as the Special Teams Coordinator and Assistant Quarterbacks Coach?
Nelson Fishback was hired as the Special Teams Coordinator and Assistant Quarterbacks Coach.
Who is the Offensive Coordinator and Quarterbacks Coach?
Nick Petrino is the Offensive Coordinator and Quarterbacks Coach.
Who is the Defensive Coordinator and Defensive Line Coach?
L.D. Scott is the Defensive Coordinator and Defensive Line Coach.
Coastal Carolina Football Staff Highlights (2026 Season)
| Position | Name | Key Prior Experience / Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Head Coach | Ryan Beard | Former Missouri State Head Coach (7-5 FBS record in 2025) |
| Chief of Staff | Max Franey | Director of Football Operations, Missouri State |
| Director of Football Operations | CJ Schrimpf | Promoted, former Coastal Carolina student-athlete |
| Director of Football Performance | Dr. Jackson Morris | Assistant Strength and Conditioning Coach, Missouri State |
| Special Teams Coordinator & Asst. QBs Coach | Nelson Fishback | Special Teams Coordinator, New Mexico State (Top Group of Five special teams) |
| Offensive Coordinator & QBs Coach | Nick Petrino | |
| Offensive Line Coach | Nick Gilbert | Assistant Offensive Line Coach, Michigan (2023 National Champion team) |
| Running Backs Coach | Everette Sands | Coached NFL draft picks at South Carolina |
| Defensive Coordinator & DL Coach | L.D. Scott | |
| Defensive Backs/Corners Coach | Chris Franklin | Cornerbacks Coach, Missouri State |
| Scouting Coordinator | Armstrong | Scouting Coordinator, University of Oklahoma |
Now Happening on X
- @alanblondin (Jan 2, 2026): Reports that the NCAA transfer portal has opened with at least 13 Coastal Carolina football players entering, including starters, while highlighting Ryan Beard’s new coaching hires. View on X
- @ChantsSzn (Jan 2, 2026): Shares additional staff additions for Coastal Carolina Football, including Jackson Morris for strength and conditioning, Max Franey as Director of Football Operations, and several analysts. View on X
- @CoastalFootball (Jan 3, 2026): Announces the recruiting and support staff hires for Coastal Carolina Football with more details available. View on X
- @GoCCUsports (Jan 3, 2026): Coastal Carolina Athletics confirms the recruiting and support staff announcements for the football program. View on X
- @PalmettoSportTV (Jan 3, 2026): Posts about Coastal Carolina football’s announcement of its support and recruiting staff. View on X
- @ccuchronicles (Jan 2, 2026): Notes that Coastal Carolina has announced its offensive staff hires under Ryan Beard as the transfer portal opens, urging fans to get ready. View on X
- @BDunnsports (Dec 29, 2025): Reports Ryan Beard’s hiring of Nick Petrino as Offensive Coordinator and Quarterbacks Coach, and L.D. Scott as Defensive Coordinator and Defensive Line Coach for Coastal Carolina. View on X
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Author: STAFF HERE MYRTLE BEACH
The HERE Myrtle Beach Staff Writers are a collaborative team of journalists, editors, and local contributors passionate about delivering accurate, timely information to the Myrtle Beach community. As part of the HEREcity.com Network, which powers over 100 U.S. city sites including HEREcolumbia.com, our staff draws on collective experience in South Carolina journalism to cover everything from business sales and real estate developments to dining deals and community initiatives. Our Expertise and Background Local Roots in Myrtle Beach Our team includes lifelong Myrtle Beach residents and SC natives with deep knowledge of the area’s history, economy, and culture. We’ve covered key events like the recent developments along the Grand Strand, Myrtle Beach’s tourism and hospitality industry, and growth in local education sectors (e.g., Coastal Carolina University programs). Collective Experience With over 50 combined years in journalism, our staff has backgrounds in print, digital media, and community reporting. We prioritize fact-based stories, drawing from sources like the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce, city government records, and on-the-ground interviews. Commitment to Quality Every article is a group effort, involving research, editing, and verification to ensure reliability. We adhere to journalistic standards, citing credible sources and updating content as new details emerge.
