CLEVELAND, Miss. – Delta State University Director of Athletics Mike Kinnison has announced the hiring of David Dean as the 20th head football coach in program history, bringing one of the most
accomplished and respected résumés in NCAA Division II football to Cleveland. Dean will be introduced to the campus and the community at a press conference Thursday, Feb. 12 at 11 a.m., inside the Simmons Room of the Hugh Ellis Walker Alumni House. The public is invited to attend.
Dean arrives at Delta State with more than 35 years of collegiate coaching experience, including over two decades as a head coach, and a proven track record of sustained excellence at the national level. Over his career, Dean has compiled a 127–47 record as a head coach, captured three NCAA Division II National Championships, earned a national runner-up finish, and won seven Gulf South Conference championships. His success places him as the second-winningest head coach in GSC history, one of the most competitive leagues in Division II football.
"David Dean will be a great addition to our Delta State Coaching Staff." Kinnison Said, "His record speaks for itself, and his experience in the Gulf South Conference and NCAA competition will be an asset to the continued progress of our football program. He is highly respected in college football circles and will continue to instill the proper values in our young men."
Most recently, Dean served as head coach at the University of West Georgia from 2017–23, where he became the winningest coach in school history with a 48–20 record. Under his leadership, the Wolves reached the NCAA Division II playoffs three times, including back-to-back appearances in 2017 and 2018, and again in 2021. During the 2022 season, Dean's offense led all of Division II in total offense, showcasing his long-standing reputation as one of the most innovative offensive minds in the college game.
During his time in Carrollton, Dean and his team has produced 40 All-Gulf South Conference selections and 16 All-Americans. Two players from his 2019 squad, John Hurst and Azouyah Alufohai signed undrafted free agent contracts in the National Football League.
Dean is perhaps best known for his success at Valdosta State University, where he built a national powerhouse during two separate stints. As head coach from 2007–15, he posted a 79–27 overall record, led the Blazers to NCAA Division II National Championships in 2007 and 2012, and guided the program to six playoff appearances. Dean was named AFCA National Coach of the Year in both championship seasons and earned multiple regional and conference coaching honors during his tenure.
Beyond his individual success, Dean's VSU players captured the highest of honors. His VSU teams had 18 Division II All-America selections, while 10 players signed National Football League contracts. Dean also coached three players who earned GSC Freshman of the Year honors, two league players of the year, and a national defensive player of the year.
In addition to his time as head coach, Dean also played a key role in Valdosta State's 2004 national championship as offensive coordinator, helping guide one of the most prolific offenses in Division II history. His teams have been consistently known for explosive offensive production, disciplined special teams play, and a strong emphasis on academic accountability.
Dean also brings Division I experience, having served as co-offensive coordinator and passing game coordinator at Georgia Southern University during the 2016 season. Under his leadership, the Eagles saw significant increases in passing efficiency, yardage, and touchdown production, while also developing multiple players who earned opportunities at the professional level.
"I am really excited about this new opportunity." Dean exclaimed, Delta State has long been a staple in what I believe to be the best Division II football conference in the country. I know the type athletes that are currently there and the caliber athlete we can bring in, to continue the great tradition of Statesman football!"
A former wide receiver at Georgia Tech, Dean holds a degree in business management from Georgia State University. Throughout his career, he has been deeply involved in the coaching profession, serving on several national committees through the American Football Coaches Association, including the AFCA Rules Committee and Division II Poll Selection Committee. He has also been an active speaker and ambassador for college football at the conference and national level.
Dean will officially assume his duties immediately, beginning preparation for the upcoming season.
Dean is a native of DeKalb County in the metro Atlanta area. He was born in Decatur and enjoyed a stellar high school career for the Avondale Blue Devils. He is married to Stacie and has three daughters: Caroline, Allison, and Natalie.
