By: By Al Barba
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KENNESAW, Ga. (December 9, 2013) – Brett Gilliland, who was named quarterbacks at Kennesaw State on May 28, has resigned his position with the Owls to accept the head coaching position at Division II West Alabama, it was announced on Monday. Gilliland was officially introduced at a 3 p.m. (CT) press conference in Livingston, Ala.
"I am forever indebted and grateful for the opportunity that I was given to be on the first ever coaching staff at Kennesaw State," Gilliland said. "KSU is a tremendous place with a bright future. I appreciate Coach (Brian) Bohannon and (Director of Athletics) Vaughn Williams for believing in me.
"I have been given another tremendous opportunity to return to my alma mater as the head football coach and feel the Lord is leading my family and me into this new endeavor," Gilliland added. "I am truly excited for the future of Kennesaw State and West Alabama."
Prior to being hired at Kennesaw State, Gilliland spent the previous three seasons as an assistant coach at Georgia Southern.
During his three seasons under head coach Jeff Monken at Georgia Southern, Gilliland worked with the B-backs (2010), tight ends and tackles (2011) and wide receivers (2012). He also took over the recruiting coordinator duties following the conclusion of the 2011 season. The Eagles posted a 31-12 (.721) overall record, captured two Southern Conference titles (2011, 2012) and made three consecutive NCAA Football Championship Series (FCS) semifinal appearances during Gilliland's time in Statesboro, Ga. The kickoff return unit also led the Southern Conference and was ranked in the top 15 nationally during each of Gilliland's three seasons with the Eagles.
"I am extremely happy for Brett and his family," Kennesaw State head coach
Brian Bohannon said. "Brett is a bright, young coach and it is great to see him have the opportunity to return home to his alma mater as head football coach.
"Brett made significant contributions during his time here at Kennesaw State and I wish him and his family all the best." Bohannon added. "I know he and the West Alabama football program will enjoy great success under his leadership."
A four-year letter winner at quarterback for West Alabama from 2000-03, Gilliland was a regional finalist for the Harlon Hill trophy in 2003. He earned All-Gulf South second team honors (2002) as well as all-region recognition from the
Football Gazette (2002). Gilliland concluded his career as the Tigers' single-season (3,213) and career passing yards (6,689) record holder. He completed his West Alabama career with a record 6,847 total offensive yards while playing in 42 games and starting 27. In 2012, he was inducted into the UWA Athletic Hall of Fame.
In addition to the awards presented to him for his athletics achievements, Gilliland earned numerous accolades for his academic work. A 2003 College Sports Information Directors of America (CoSIDA) Academic All-District IV selection, he also was honored twice with the Gulf South Conference "Top Eight" award.
A two-time member of the All-Gulf South Conference Academic list, he won the Asa Green Scholar-Athlete Award, an award presented to the student-athlete with the highest grade-point average on the football team, winning it in 2001 and 2003. Gilliland, the offensive team captain, was selected by his teammates as the recipient of the Phil Puccio Leadership and Dedication Award in 2001 and 2003.
Gilliland graduated magna cum laude from West Alabama in 2004 with a bachelor's of science degree in physical education with an emphasis in Sport Management and minor in business administration.
Gilliland and his wife, Amanda, were married in Gulf Shores, Ala., in 2005. The couple has a son, Rece Elijah.
Keep up with Kennesaw State Athletics by following KSU on Twitter @KSUOwlNation and or by liking Kennesaw State Owls on Facebook. You also can follow Kennesaw State football at @KennesawSTFB.
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