MEAC

Alvin Wyatt, Sr. took over as head football coach at his alma mater in 1997, leading the Wildcats to their first-ever Div. I bowl game in 1998 when Bethune-Cookman appeared in the Heritage Bowl. Known for his colorful personality and equally vibrant wardrobe, Wyatt instilled his knowledge of defense in turning the Wildcats into a powerhouse in the MEAC. That led to a conference title in 2002 – the Wildcats’ first outright MEAC crown since 1984 – and back-to-back NCAA Div. I-AA playoff appearances in 2002 and 2003. Among those Wyatt coached during his tenure were future NFL players Rashean Mathis (2017 MEAC Hall of Fame inductee), Nick Collins (2018 MEAC Hall of Fame inductee) and Eric Weems. Wyatt is the all-time winningest coach in Bethune-Cookman football history at 90-54, but he was just as successful as head coach of the women’s basketball program. He led the Lady Wildcats to the 1984 MEAC Tournament championship with a 62-61 overtime win over South Carolina State, and he was named the tournament’s Outstanding Coach. Wyatt served as head coach of the women’s basketball program from 1978-96, going 260-200 to rank as the all-time winningest coach for that program as well.