'It's an incredible feeling': New Washburn head football coach ready to lead team

TOPEKA (KSNT) - Washburn University's new head football coach is settling into his role as the 38th leader of the college's program.

27 News caught up with Watkins on Wednesday, Nov. 27 to see how he is feeling after the news broke earlier this week that he would become the new face of the football program. He has spent the previous 11 seasons as the co-defensive coordinator for the Ichabods and is the first Washburn alumni in 30 years to be named head coach.

"It's an incredible feeling, I have been prepared for this opportunity for a long time, but to have the ability to lead these guys, lead this program, especially at my alma mater, a place that is really special to me is extremely exciting," Watkins said.

Washburn's former head football coach, Craig Schurig, was let go on Nov. 18. He was the leader of the football program for more than 20 seasons and holds the distinction of being the program's all-time winningest coach with an overall record of 142-109.

Schurig spoke with a 27 News reporter in the days after the coaching change was made public by the university. While he said he disagreed with the process that led to his dismissal from the program, he was grateful for the time he had with the team.

"The program is in great shape now and hopefully the players stay because they can be a powerful team in 2025, 2026, and beyond," Schurig said.

Watkins told 27 News he plans to carry the team forward and that the players are ready to win now. He brings with him coaching experience from his time at Northwest Missouri State University and Fort Hays State University.

"We have got a really good base of young kids and will add some kids to that and should be really good," Watkins said.

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