Aaron James Out at Tuskegee
[Photo label: James]
Tuskegee announced Sunday, following a 30-28 loss to Morehouse Saturday, that alumnus and head football coach Aaron James has been relieved of his duties. The university also announced Assistant Head Coach and Offensive Line Coach Keith Higdon will serve as interim head coach while a national search is conducted.
James was released one week after his Golden Tigers handed then SIAC leader Benedict its first loss of the season, 20-17 in Tuskegee. Morehouse came in to Saturday’s contest in Montgomery, Alabama with just one win, a 44-0 win over Lane. Under James this season, the Tigers were 2-1 in SIAC play with wins over Benedict and Fort Valley State (24-23). and 2-3 overall with the other losses to West Alabama (27-17) to open the season and Jackson State of the SWAC (41-7).
James was 18-20 in his four years leading Tuskegee.
“We are extremely grateful to Coach James for his leadership, dedication, and service to Tuskegee University,” said Reginald S. Ruffin, vice president of intercollegiate athletics and director of athletics. Ruffin, who formerly spent nine years leading Miles College football, spent one year as head coach at Tuskegee before appointing James as his successor.
“Aaron is a proud Tuskegee alumnus who has represented his alma mater with tremendous pride. We thank him for his commitment to our student-athletes, our football program, and the Tuskegee community. We wish Coach James and his family nothing but success in the next chapter of their journey.”
“Tuskegee football has a proud championship tradition, and our expectations remain high,” Ruffin said. “Our commitment is to academic excellence, developing young men, competing for championships, graduating our student-athletes, and representing Tuskegee University with distinction. We will conduct a comprehensive national search to identify a leader who embraces those expectations and understands the standard associated with wearing the Crimson and Old Gold.”
