New head football coach Saj Thakkar is assembling an impressive staff for his inaugural season at Davidson College. Thakkar, who joined the Wildcats after a successful stint as head coach at Division II Bentley University, has brought in his first five assistant coaches to help build on Davidson’s recent success in the Pioneer Football League.
“We’re going to win here,” Thakkar said during his introductory press conference late last month. “Great coaches attract great players, so we’re going to bring in a great staff who provide an outstanding environment that student-athletes want to be a part of.”
Here’s a closer look at the new hires, courtesy Davidson College athletics:
Keegan Kennedy – Associate Head Coach / Offensive Coordinator / Offensive Line
Kennedy, a seasoned offensive mind, reunites with Thakkar after their time together at Harvard. Most recently, he coached at Richmond as Offensive Line/Run Game Coordinator. Kennedy brings extensive experience at the FCS and FBS levels developing potent rushing attacks, aligning well with Davidson’s tradition as a dominant ground game team.
“It’s poised to be a very strong move for Thakkar, as Kennedy — most recently the offensive line coach for the Richmond Spiders — not only has extensive Ivy League experience from his time on the Harvard staff but also played the game at an elite level,” wrote John Brice of FootballScoop.com, a web site focused on coaching news. “A Northwestern graduate, Kennedy was an All-Big Ten Conference selection for the Wildcats during his playing days.”
Miles Ahles – Defensive Coordinator / Linebackers
Ahles, who served as Thakkar’s defensive coordinator at Bentley, takes the reins of Davidson’s defense. Known for his physical and fundamentally sound approach, Under Ahles’ leadership, the Davidson defense “will be physical, fast and fundamentally sound,” Thakkar said.
Cam Gibson – Defensive Backs
Gibson brings a wealth of Pioneer Football League experience as a former player and coach at Marist. His high football IQ and energetic coaching style will be instrumental in developing Davidson’s secondary. “Our defensive backs will get to learn from someone who has been in their shoes,” Thakkar said.
Pat McGowan – Tight Ends
McGowan is a rising star in the coaching world, joining the Wildcats from Bentley, where he coached the offensive line for two seasons. Known for his versatility and understanding of all three phases of the game, McGowan will be a valuable resource for Davidson’s tight ends.
Brent Kasabian – Defensive Ends
Kasabian rounds out the initial staff with years of experience in defensive line and special teams roles, including his recent position as a Defensive Analyst at Charlotte. His schematic expertise and competitive spirit will bolster Davidson’s defensive front.
Thakkar expressed enthusiasm about the staff’s potential to enhance Davidson’s championship-caliber program. Additional coaching hires are expected in the coming weeks as the Wildcats prepare for the 2025 season.
Read the complete release from Davidson College HERE
READ MORE: Davidson introduces new football coach Saj Thakkar
