By Chris Stevens
(Source: HBCU Sports)
Terrell Buckley has seen just about everything in his 30-plus years in the game of football.
In his introduction as Mississippi Valley State’s new head coach, he laid down some ground rules that he believes will help turn around a program that has not had a winning season in nearly 20 years.
“We’re not going to complain; we’re going to take action,” Buckley said Monday afternoon. “And if you do complain…the transfer portal works two ways.”
Buckley, 53, a Mississippi native, was hired as MVSU’s head coach last week, ending a search that began with the departure of Kendrick Wade Jr.
Buckley played 14 seasons in the NFL, winning a Super Bowl with the New England Patriots during the 2001 season.
Following his playing days, he spent many years as an assistant coach at his alma mater, Florida State, Louisville, Akron, Mississippi State, and Ole Miss before coaching the Orlando Guardians of the then-XFL in 2023.
Buckley promised to bring talented players to Itta Bena, first on its home turf, then expanding.
“I’ve recruited all over this country, but starts and ends with Mississippi,” he said.
Buckley also said his door would be open to anyone and everybody with a vested interest in the program’s success.
“I want to make sure that we as an administration are one,” he said. “Doesn’t matter if it’s a tutor, professor – my door is always open. Alumni, former players; come back. I want to see you. I have no issue talking ball with you.”
