Tuesday, January 7, 2025

Shaw University Names Lamar Manigo as New Head Football Coach


RALEIGH – Shaw University has appointed Lamar Manigo as its new head football coach, marking a homecoming for the former Bears offensive coordinator. The announcement comes just days after previous head coach selection Greg Ruffin stepped aside due to health concerns.


Manigo, who served as Shaw's offensive coordinator from 2016 to 2021, returns to the Bears after a successful stint at Virginia State University, where he demonstrated his offensive prowess as Assistant Head Coach and Offensive Coordinator. Under his guidance, the Trojans emerged as an offensive powerhouse in the CIAA, averaging 30.4 points per game this past season en route to a conference championship appearance.


"We are happy to welcome Coach Lamar Manigo back to Shaw University," said George Knox, Director of Athletics. "His passion for the game, dedication to mentoring student-athletes, and commitment to excellence align perfectly with our vision for the football program."


Manigo's football roots in the CIAA run deep. As a quarterback at Bowie State from 2003-06, he led the Bulldogs to the 2005 conference title game and departed as the school's all-time leader in passing yards and touchdowns. His coaching career includes successful stops at Prairie View A&M, North Carolina Central, and Norfolk State.


During his previous tenure at Shaw, Manigo's offenses set numerous program records. The 2019 Bears averaged over 360 yards per game, and in 2021, his unit led the CIAA in rushing with 184.6 yards per game.


"This is a homecoming for me," said Manigo. "I look forward to working with our talented student-athletes to build a program that makes our university and alumni proud.

Shaw University Names Lamar Manigo as New Head Football Coach