Wake Forest University football coach Dave Clawson has announced his resignation after an impactful 11-year tenure with the team. Clawson, 57, expressed that he felt the time was right to transition to a new advisory role within the athletic department.
Under Clawson’s guidance, Wake Forest experienced significant success, including an impressive 11-win season in 2021 and a trip to the Atlantic Coast Conference championship game. His coaching style focused on developing players over time, leading to six consecutive bowl appearances. However, recent seasons saw a decline in performance, with the team finishing 4-8, as challenges arose from the changing landscape of college football, particularly regarding player transfers and opportunities for NIL deals.
In a statement, Clawson reflected on his time at Wake Forest, describing it as the honor of his career. He expressed gratitude for the relationships he built and the accomplishments achieved during his time there. Athletic Director John Currie acknowledged Clawson’s decision in an open letter, sharing that he had hoped Clawson would reconsider.
Clawson took over the program in 2014 following Jim Grobe’s successful era. He built his team’s success through player retention and a strong emphasis on disciplined football. This approach was crucial for competing against larger programs that often attract high-profile recruits. Wake Forest’s game style was characterized by a controlled offense and efficient play, which saw them achieve remarkable statistics during Clawson’s tenure.
Despite the successes, recent seasons have highlighted the difficulties of maintaining a competitive edge in a rapidly evolving sport. Players like former quarterback Sam Hartman have left for other schools, exacerbating the challenges of retaining talent amidst competitive offers elsewhere. Clawson spoke about these struggles frequently and noted the temptation for players to seek alternatives in pursuit of lucrative deals.
The past season was filled with ups and downs, including tough losses that impacted team morale. With this resignation, Wake Forest now faces the task of finding a suitable successor who can uphold and build upon the foundation Clawson established.
As Clawson steps away from coaching, he leaves behind a legacy of resilience and a commitment to nurturing young talent within the unique landscape of college football. The Wake Forest community now looks ahead, hopeful for a new chapter in the program’s history.