Mark Stoops is a distinguished American college football coach, currently serving as the head coach for the University of Kentucky football program since 2013. Under his leadership, Stoops has transformed the Wildcats into a formidable force in college football, becoming the all-time winningest head coach in the program’s history. His tenure has been marked by significant achievements, including multiple bowl appearances and a historic 10-win season in 2018, which was the first for Kentucky since 1977. Stoops’ ability to build a competitive team from the ground up has earned him recognition as one of the best program builders in college football.

Before taking the helm at Kentucky, Stoops honed his coaching skills in various roles, including defensive coordinator at Florida State University, where he dramatically improved a struggling defense. His tenure at Florida State saw the Seminoles rank among the top defenses in the nation, showcasing his expertise in defensive strategy and player development. Stoops also served as defensive backs coach at the University of Miami, contributing to a national championship team in 2001 and developing numerous players who went on to successful NFL careers.

Stoops’ coaching journey began as a graduate assistant at Iowa, where he played college football. His early career included coaching positions at South Florida, Wyoming, and Arizona, where he worked alongside his brother Mike. Each stop along the way allowed Stoops to refine his coaching philosophy and build a reputation for developing talented defensive players.

In addition to his on-field success, Stoops is committed to community service, particularly through his support of the Kentucky Children’s Hospital. His dedication to both football and philanthropy has made him a respected figure in the college sports community. As he continues to lead the Wildcats, Stoops remains focused on building a program that not only competes at a high level but also fosters academic and personal growth among his players.