The Central State Marauders are making a historic addition to their football program.
Ashley Cornwell has been hired as a tight ends and assistant special teams coach.
Cornwell’s coaching career began as a student assistant at her alma mater, the University of Wisconsin. She became the first female coach in the school’s history and at any Power Four school.
She served in this role from 2019 to 2022, during which time she also participated in her first stint in the Bill Walsh Diversity Coaching Fellowship with the Tennessee Titans.
The trailblazing coach would go on to continue to take part in the Diversity Coaching Fellowship with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2023, the Washington Commanders in 2024, and this year with the Cleveland Browns.
🚨 Coaching Staff Update 🚨
Welcome Ashley Cornwell — Tight Ends Coach & Asst. Special Teams Coordinator!
She’s made history at Wisconsin, Bucknell & the Patriot League, and brings NFL Bill Walsh Fellowship experience. Trailblazer. Leader. Marauder. 💪🏾 pic.twitter.com/pdyUKouQQv— Central State Marauders Football 🏴☠️ (@GoMaraudersFB) June 26, 2025
In 2023, Cornwell was hired as the offensive line coach at Oberlin College. The following year, she transitioned to Bucknell, becoming the first woman to coach at the school and in the Patriot League.
Initially hired as the Assistant Offensive Line Coach and Run Game Analyst, Cornwell was later promoted to Interim Tight Ends Coach and In-Game Management Coordinator.
Central State is entering its first season under head coach Tony Carter, after moving on from former coach Kevin Porter following a three-year tenure.
Former Super Bowl MVP wide receiver Santonio Holmes and former All-Big Ten selection and Power Five assistant coach Mike McCray are also on the Central State coaching staff.
The Marauders are searching for their first winning season in over 15 years.
