Greg Ruffin won’t be Shaw University’s next football coach after all.
The school announced on New Year’s Day that Ruffin has declined the position due to health concerns.
“I deeply appreciate the opportunity to once again serve as head coach of Shaw University,” Ruffin said in a statement released by the school. “Unfortunately, due to health concerns, I must step away from my coaching duties. I am grateful for the support of the Shaw family and will always remain a proud part of this community.”
Ruffin had been announced as the new Bears coach on Christmas Eve. He was set to replace Adrian Jones, who had been dismissed after posting a 35-45 record over eight seasons. Ruffin coached at Shaw in 2002 when the school restarted its football program. Jones has since taken the head coaching job at Elizabeth City State.
“We fully support Coach Ruffin in prioritizing his health and well-being during this difficult time. Our thoughts are with him, and we wish him a full and speedy recovery” Shaw athletics director George Knox said in a release.
Shaw University officials promise a “new announcement on the next head coach is forthcoming.”
