HUNTINGTON, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Marshall University has named West Virginia native Tony Gibson as the 32nd head coach of the Thundering Herd football program, Director of Athletics Christian Spears announced Sunday.
Gibson will replace current head coach Charles Huff who is leaving for Southern Miss.
Gibson, a Boone County native with over 30 years of coaching experience, will be formally introduced at a press conference at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 12, in the Encova Auditorium at the Brad D. Smith Center for Business and Innovation.
“Finding the right person to lead the Thundering Herd Football program is one of the most important decisions we will make in Marshall Athletics,” Spears said.
“The 32nd Head Coach in the history of our program is coming home! He is a proud Boone County native with an enormous wealth of coaching experience that will continue to elevate and honor the tradition of success of Marshall Football.”
Spears also thanked university leadership and staff for their support in the hiring process, specifically praising Marshall University President Brad D. Smith and Senior Associate Athletic Director Mike Valentine.
President Smith echoed Spears’ enthusiasm, emphasizing Gibson’s connection to the state and his proven track record.
“We could not be happier to welcome Tony Gibson home as our 32nd head coach at Marshall University,” Smith said. “Coach Gibson has led some of the top programs on the national level, but in the end, his heart desired to return to the mountains from which he came.”
Gibson brings extensive coaching experience to Huntington, having served as defensive coordinator and linebackers coach at N.C. State for the past six seasons.
His career also includes stints at West Virginia University, Arizona, Pitt, and Michigan.
Over the years, he has coached in 16 bowl games, mentored five All-Americans, and guided 22 players to professional careers. In 2021, he was a finalist for the prestigious Broyles Award, recognizing the nation’s top assistant coach.
A graduate of Glenville State, Gibson was a standout defensive back and a member of two West Virginia Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WVIAC) championship teams.
Gibson will relocate to Huntington with his wife, Kerry, and their two children, Cody and Ashton.
