Former Bison Standout Jason Coleman Named Coach of The Year

Washington D.C.-- Gallaudet University Alumnus and former Bison quarterback Jason Coleman has been named Coach of the Year by Deaf Digest for his work as the head football coach at California School for the Deaf-Riverside. CSD Riverside made noticeable strides in Coleman's first year at the helm.

"It's a big honor actually I didn't expect to receive this after a (tough) season," said Coleman. "However, the improvement we showed from day one to the end of the season was unbelievable,"

Bison faithful remember Coleman from his days as a strong armed quarterback for the ‘Buff and Blue'. As a senior in 2007, he completed 86 of 164 pass attempts (53%) amassing 1,150 yards with seven touchdowns to six interceptions. On the ground he accounted for another 419 yards and four touchdowns. He also spent time as a widereciever where he finished with 10 receptions for 140 yards and three touchdowns. For his senior season he accounted for 1709 yards and 14 touchdowns.

"My football years at Gallaudet were priceless," replied Coleman when asked to recount his playing career. "We had those up and down years but the personal growth made me who I am today,"

Gallaudet Head Football Coach Ed Hottle knew Coleman would eventually become a great football coach. In addition to being a team leader, Coleman showed incredible toughness as he led Gallaudet to its first NCAA Division III football win since the 1991 season against the St. Vincent Bearcats on September 1, 2007.

"Jason was a versatile athlete that always had the ability to create success on the football field," said Hottle when asked his opinion of Coleman. "It is little surprise that he has been able to transfer that from playing to coaching. He was a great student and a great steward of our program,"

Coleman is looking for the Bison to continue to build on the solid foundation that has been established over the last two years. He describes Gallaudet as on the rise and believes that Coach Ed Hottle will continue to make the team competitive.