What Bob Chesney Is Building at UCLA Defies Modern College Football
Sports Illustrated • • sports
Key Points:
- UCLA football head coach Bob Chesney has cultivated a family-oriented culture within the program, regularly involving staff members' families and creating a welcoming environment that extends beyond the field.
- The team has achieved an 8–0 start to the season, with strong contributions from players and staff brought in from Chesney's previous successful coaching stops, emphasizing hard work and energy.
- Chesney’s leadership style focuses on attention to detail, positive attitude, and maintaining joy in the game, contrasting with more intense, high-pressure programs.
- The program’s success is highlighted by strong defensive performance and resilience, notably overcoming injuries such as the loss of starting quarterback Nico Iamaleava.
- Chesney’s personal background, including his upbringing in a football family and his journey through lower-division coaching ranks, informs his inclusive and grounded approach to building UCLA’s football culture.
