Trent Dilfer’s journey to becoming UAB’s head coach is anything but ordinary. Though he is new to the college coaching scene, having transitioned from a high school position, Dilfer’s story begins with an extraordinary claim: he heard the voice of God in October 2018.
“I was at church, and I heard an audible voice saying, ‘Quit saying no to me,’” Dilfer recounted to CBS Sports. “It was a profound experience that rocked me.”
Dilfer’s deep faith is central to his identity, and he firmly believes in this divine intervention. Despite being comfortably retired, playing golf nearly daily, and enjoying life, this moment catalyzed a major shift for him. His daughter even commented, “Dad, you’ve gone a little soft,” spurring him to reconsider his next steps.
Blazers athletic director Mark Ingram faced skepticism from his own search committee when considering Dilfer. “You really think I should hire a high school coach?” Ingram asked a recommender. Despite initial doubts, an hour-and-a-half phone call with Dilfer changed his mind. “What’s 10 minutes with a Super Bowl winner?” he thought.
Dilfer’s transition from high school to college coaching is scrutinized but promising. At Lipscomb Academy, he transformed a struggling program into a state powerhouse. Now, he’s focused on elevating UAB as they move to the American Athletic Conference.
“I’m here to light a fuse and make this program a powerhouse,” Dilfer said confidently. His blend of faith, experience, and bold vision aims to bring UAB back to prominence.
