Chicago State University Introduces New Football Coach
Chicago State University Introduces New Football Coach
By Tia Carol Jones
Chicago State University has chosen Bobby Rome II as the head coach of its football team. The announcement was made in mid-April during a press conference. Rome comes from Florida Memorial University and is a former professional athlete.
Chicago State University President Zaldwaynaka “Z” Scott talked about the historic nature of announcing Rome as the head coach. She said the moment represented a major milestone in the growth and transformation of the athletic program and a giant step toward bringing football to the University.
“At Chicago State, we know that athletics is more than just about games, it’s about uniting people, igniting pride and enriching the student experience. A strong athletics program is a heartbeat for any thriving campus and we’re beating stronger than ever,” she said.
Scott said that Chicago State University has been growing its athletics program in a way that reflects the University’s values, elevates the school and serves the South side of Chicago, where it is located. She added that under the leadership of Dr. Monique Carroll, Director of Athletics, the University has been building the athletic program in order to get to the moment of being able to begin a football program. The University’s Athletic Department already has soccer, basketball, golf, tennis, volleyball, track and field and cross country.
Scott said that launching a football program isn’t just about competition, it is about culture and legacy, while creating a new sense of pride and community not just for Chicago State but for the entire South side of Chicago.
“Football at Chicago State will amplify the school spirit, deepen our local impact, and extend our reach on a National stage, as a proud Division 1 institution in the Northeast conference,” she said.
Carroll thanked Scott for trusting her to lead the athletic program and hire great coaches, as well as going on the journey to start the football program. She said she and her staff are building a comprehensive Division 1 program. She said prior to her arrival; Chicago State had not won a championship in 12 years. Last year, the women’s volleyball team won a championship.
Carroll said hiring Rome as head coach is a testament to the transformation that has been taking place University-wide. She said there were more than 230 applicants for the position. She said they were intentional in their search, looking for a leader who could sell the program, excited about building, had a reputation of building and could follow the athletic department and University’s vision. She said that Coach Rome checked all those boxes.
“It’s clear that we have a proven winner, but more than that, we do have a teacher, a mentor, and someone that can guide, not only the young men who will be in the program, but be a pillar to the entire Chicago State campus community,” Carroll said. She added that Rome understands the power of community and what is needed to bring the dream to reality.
Rome thanked Carroll for trusting him to be the University’s first head coach. He said coaching for him is a ministry and a calling, and not something he takes lightly. He said the area is starving for a Division 1 college football program. He said he is going to lead the football program with no fear.
“This is not my football team, this is our football team, and I need everyone in this room … it’s going to take every single one of us,” he said. He added that he is going to bring young men who will be disciplined, obedient and show grit on the football field.
For more information about Chicago State University Athletics, visit www.gocougars.com.
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