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Dilfer steps down as head coach of Lipscomb Academy football program

NASHVILLE (Nov. 30, 2022) – Trent Dilfer, head coach of the Lipscomb Academy football program, has resigned effective end of day Dec. 1 to become head coach at the University of Alabama-Birmingham, Brad Schultz, head of Lipscomb Academy announced.

In the four seasons as head coach at Lipscomb Academy, Dilfer guided the Mustangs to one TSSAA Div II-AA state championship title (2021) and one state runner-up (2020) and coached 21 consecutive undefeated games at home since 2020. Under his tutelage, the Mustangs outscored their opponents 1,069-140 with 15 notable touchdowns scored by the defensive line and special teams.

“We are thankful for the impact Coach Dilfer has had on the Lipscomb Academy football program. During the last four seasons, the Lipscomb Academy football program has witnessed a revitalization, and the energy from our student-athletes has been palpable,” said Schultz. “I am confident of the continued upward trajectory of the football program, and the foundation that is in place that has prepared us to move to Div II-AAA competition next season. We have strong student-athletes, enhanced training facilities, skilled football and athletics staff and administration, and the longevity of an institution dedicated to the holistic approach to developing student-athletes from the inside out making Lipscomb Academy an exceptionally attractive opportunity for top talent and future coaching staff.”

During the 2022 season, the Lipscomb Academy football program garnered unprecedented national recognition beginning with the Mustangs’ defeat of the #1 Alabama 7A ranked Thompson Warriors. Nationally, Lipscomb football currently is ranked #10 by Prep Gridiron Logistics, #14 by USA Today, and #15 by MaxPreps.

“I am proud of what we have accomplished together at Lipscomb Academy over the last four years. I am particularly proud of what our players have accomplished and most importantly the ways they have developed into young men of character,” said Dilfer. “I have often said that this is a human development program disguised as a football team, and I firmly believe that what the coaching staff has done here at Lipscomb will have an impact on our players for years to come. I greatly appreciate the enthusiastic support of the Lipscomb Academy community and for the opportunity to lead the Mustang football program.”

“I am particularly looking forward to returning to the TSSAA Div II-AA State Championship game tomorrow,” continued Dilfer. “Our student-athletes have worked hard this season in order to play in the title game, and I am excited for them to have this opportunity to repeat as state champions.”

A national search for the next head coach of the Lipscomb Academy football team is underway, and prospective candidates are being identified as interest in the program is mounting.

The Lipscomb Academy Mustangs earned the TSSAA State Championship title in 2021, 2007, 2002, and 1994.