San Antonio, TX – As the University of the Incarnate Word football program rises to the FCS level this season, it's bringing a little star power.
Former NFL All-Pro Ricky Williams, the 1998 Heisman Trophy winner, will serve as UIW's new running backs coach on a part-time basis.
Williams gained 10,009 rushing yards and 66 touchdowns during an 11-year career with the New Orleans Saints, Miami Dolphins and Baltimore Ravens before he retired in 2011.
"Ricky Williams is one of the biggest names in Texas football," UIW head coach Larry Kennan said. "To have him join the coaching staff is a huge boost."
Williams, who also will work with the Longhorn Network during the season, said at his introductory conference that as a kid he always dreamed of being a football coach.
"Even when I was a kid growing up, I liked football players, but the people on the field that I idolized were actually the coaches," he said.
Williams added that he could eventually see himself becoming a head coach.
UIW is transitioning from NCAA Division II to the FCS as an independent program this season. The Cardinals will play in the Southland Conference beginning next year.
Receive your weekly recap of all the happenings around the world of sports.