Bobby Ross

Bobby Ross secured his first head coaching role at The Citadel in 1973, following his 1959 graduation from the Virginia Military Institute. His early career progression included a tenure as an assistant coach for the NFL’s Kansas City Chiefs from 1978 to 1981, providing him experience in the professional football environment. Ross then took the helm as head coach for the University of Maryland from 1982 to 1986. During this period, he developed a high-powered offense and led the Terrapins to three consecutive Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) Championships between 1983 and 1985, establishing his reputation for building successful programs.

Ross’s collegiate coaching career reached its zenith at Georgia Tech, where he served as head coach from 1987 to 1991. In 1990, he guided the Yellow Jackets to a remarkable undefeated season and a shared national title. This achievement garnered him national coach of the year honors, including the prestigious Bobby Dodd Coach of the Year Award, the Paul ‘Bear’ Bryant Award, the Sporting News College Football Coach of the Year, the Walter Camp Coach of the Year, the Eddie Robinson Coach of the Year (all in 1990) and the AFCA Coach of the Year in 1991. Following unparalleled collegiate success, Ross transitioned to the professional level as head coach of the San Diego Chargers (1992-1996).

His career was recognized with his induction into the Virginia Sports Hall of Fame in 1997. He was further honored with inclusion in the Los Angeles Chargers Hall of Fame and the San Diego Chargers 50th Anniversary Team, underscoring his contributions to both collegiate and professional football.