Kentucky formally announces hiring of Will Stein as head football coach
By Luke Greco
Published:
University of Oregon offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach Will Stein was formally announced as the new head coach of Kentucky football Monday night.
The university released a formal announcement Monday night in which the school highlighted Stein’s connection to Kentucky and how excited the school is to bring him in. Stein’s father was a UK football player and raised Stein as a diehard Wildcat fan. Stein went on to play quarterback for the Wildcats and was also an assistant coach. UK Director of Athletics Mitch Barnhart highlighted Stein’s connection to Kentucky.
“His deep connection to Kentucky, having grown up attending games in our stadium, gives him a unique passion for this program and this community,” Barnhart said.
UK President Eli Capilouto also noted that Stein’s connection to the university gives him a clear passion for the place. He also noted that Stein is an outstanding developer and coach of young talent, and that he has proven that repeatedly in his career already.
“He understands the Big Blue Nation, this university and what this team and program mean to our Commonwealth,” Capilouto said. “We are looking forward to welcoming Will and his family back home and we can’t wait to support them as they further elevate our program in a way that makes Kentucky proud.”
Stein highlighted how he was honored and excited to become the next head coach at UK. He also noted that this is a dream come true.
“Growing up in Kentucky and sitting in the stands at UK games as a kid, I could only dream of one day leading the Wildcats. This is truly a dream come true,” Stein said. “My goal is to lead with purpose and help young men grow on and off the field. I’m deeply thankful to President Capilouto, Mitch Barnhart, and Big Blue Nation for the trust they’ve placed in me. I also want to thank Coach Dan Lanning and the entire Oregon staff for their support and mentorship, they’ve been incredible. Now, I can’t wait to get stareted and make Kentucky proud.”
