First-year Norfolk State head coach Latrell Scott announced the first hires to his staff on Wednesday.
Defensive coordinator Jerry Holmes, offensive coordinator Mike Faragalli and assistant athletics director for strength and conditioning Chris Neff will join him this season.
Holmes and Neff both come to NSU after working in similar capacities with Scott at Virginia State. Faragalli, who served on Scott’s staff at Virginia State in 2013, most recently served as quarterbacks coach, special teams coach and primary play-caller at Christopher Newport University. Holmes will also coach NSU’s linebackers, while Faragalli will work with the receivers.
Holmes has distinguished himself as a defensive coach at the FBS and FCS levels as well as the professional ranks. Most recently, Holmes coached a 2014 Virginia State defense that played an integral role in the Trojans’ 10-3 record, CIAA championship and first-ever appearance in the NCAA Division II playoffs. His defense ranked in the national Division II top 20 in turnovers, interceptions, pass defense and total defense.
Holmes is no stranger to the MEAC. He had two successful stints as defensive coordinator at Hampton and was also the Pirates’ head coach in 2008.
“I’m very pleased to have Jerry Holmes join my coaching staff,” Scott said. “My relationship with him goes back to my playing days at Hampton. He was a big part of our success last year at VSU and I know he will be great for our student-athletes here.”
Faragalli has more than 30 years of coaching experience. His extensive resume includes experience as both an assistant and head coach in college and in the Canadian Football League.
In 2013, Faragalli served as quarterbacks coach for Scott at Virginia State.
Faragalli was the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach at the University of Richmond under head coach Mike London when the Spiders won the FCS national championship in 2008.
“We’re excited to have someone of coach Faragalli’s experience and stature leading our offense,” Scott said. “He was also an integral part of my first year VSU and has more than 30 years of experience at some very successful programs. It’s great to have him become part of what we’re building at NSU.”
Scott also announced Wednesday that Paul Macklin, who served as running backs coach at NSU for the last five seasons, will remain on staff.
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