University of North Carolina Athletics
Lovett Named Special Teams Coach Of The Year Finalist
November 20, 2008 | Football
Nov. 20, 2008
North Carolina special teams coordinator John Lovett has been named one of four finalists for the Special Teams Coach of the Year award presented by FootballScoop.com and Muscle Milk.
Lovett is in his second season tutoring the Tar Heels special teams. The Tar Heels have blocked six kicks in 2008, including five by linebacker Bruce Carter and one by defensive tackle Marvin Austin. Senior Brandon Tate, a kick returner and wide receiver, was one of the most electrifying players in college football in the first half of the season before injuring his knee. Tate returned a punt for a touchdown against McNeese State in the season opener and finished his career as the NCAA's all-time leader in combined kickoff and punt return yards.
Carolina is fourth in the country in kickoff return yardage defense, allowing just 17.56 yards per return.
Lovett, who also serves as a defensive assistant, is a finalist along with Joe DeForrest of Oklahoma State, Jay Hill of Utah and James Shibest of Mississippi.
"The FootballScoop set of awards is unique from other "Coach of the Year" awards in that there is no other outlet that focuses on Position coaches and coordinators; whereas nearly every other "Coach of the Year" award is solely for a Head Coach", said Scott Roussel, President of FootballScoop.
Voting will take place through Friday December 5th. Winners will be announced beginning on December 7th. A panel of former coaches and players who will evaluate the finalists will select winners. Votes will be considered; however the Panel has final decision over the awards.
