Shaw University Head Football Coach Greg Ruffin Steps Due to Health Concerns

RALEIGH, NC – Shaw University has announced that Greg Ruffin, recently named head football coach, has stepped down from the position effective immediately due to health concerns.

“I deeply appreciate the opportunity to once again serve as head coach of Shaw University,” Ruffin shared in a heartfelt statement. “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.”

Athletic Director George Knox expressed the university’s unwavering support for Ruffin: “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.”

A new announcement regarding Shaw University’s next head football coach is expected soon.

About Greg Ruffin

Greg Ruffin’s ties to Shaw University run deep. He previously served as head coach in 2002, re-establishing the football program and leading the team to an impressive 7-3 record in its inaugural season. With more than 30 years of coaching experience at various collegiate levels, Ruffin has impacted the football community.

Most recently, Ruffin served as the running backs coach and recruiting coordinator at SWAC member Alabama State University. Throughout his career, he has been recognized for his ability to rebuild and energize football programs, including his tenure as the head coach of Edward Waters College (2017), where he became the 14th head football coach in the program’s storied HBCU history. His leadership extended to previous head coaching roles at NAIA HBCU Texas College (2016) and Paine College, where he played a pivotal role in reviving a football program that had been dormant for over 50 years.

Ruffin’s dedication to the sport and his players has left an indelible mark on the HBCU football landscape. While he may no longer be at the helm of Shaw’s program, his contributions to the game will continue to inspire.

Shaw University and its community extend their gratitude to Coach Ruffin and wish him well as he focuses on his health.

Courtesy of Shaw University