Duke University has officially named Manny Diaz as its new head football coach.
Diaz has an extensive coaching background, with 26 years in the field, including three years as a head coach and 15 as a defensive coordinator, with a decade at the FBS Power 5 level.
Duke University’s Acknowledgment of Diaz’s Dedication
Duke University President Vincent E. Price and Vice President and Director of Athletics Nina King both praised Diaz’s dedication to football.
Price highlighted Diaz’s career shift from ESPN to coaching, starting as a volunteer at Florida State and building an impressive coaching record.
King emphasized Diaz’s strong football acumen and success, noting his readiness to lead Duke’s football program to further success.
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Coaching Achievements and Recent Role at Penn State University
Diaz, aged 49, boasts a coaching history that includes 21 bowl games and guiding the Miami Hurricanes to three straight bowl appearances.
His most recent role was as the defensive coordinator at Penn State University, contributing to their 21-4 record and consecutive bowl appearances, culminating in a victory at the Rose Bowl in 2022 under head coach James Franklin.
Diaz’s Alignment with Duke’s Vision
Diaz expressed his alignment with Duke’s focus on providing the best student-athlete experience and emphasized his commitment to collaboration and connection with the university’s supporters and boosters.
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Manny Diaz’s Personal Life And Background
Manny Diaz, originally from Miami, Florida, completed his bachelor’s degree in communications at Florida State University in 1995.
He is married to Stephanie Cerow, hailing from Melbourne, Florida, and together they have three sons named Colin, Gavin, and Manny.
Manny Diaz Profile
- Hometown: Miami, Fla.
- Education: Florida State, 1995 (Communications)
- Wife: Stephanie
- Children: Colin, Gavin, and Manny
- Birthday: March 13, 1974
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Coaching Career
- 2024 – Duke (Head Coach)
- 2022-23 – Penn State (Defensive Coordinator/Linebackers)
- 2019-21 – Miami (Head Coach)
- 2016-18 – Miami (Defensive Coordinator/Linebackers)
- 2015 – Mississippi State (Defensive Coordinator)
- 2014 – Louisiana Tech (Defensive Coordinator/Linebackers)
- 2011-13 – Texas (Defensive Coordinator/Linebackers)
- 2010 – Mississippi State (Defensive Coordinator/Linebackers)
- 2008-09 – Middle Tennessee (Defensive Coordinator/Linebackers)
- 2006-07 – Middle Tennessee (Defensive Coordinator/Safeties)
- 2004-05 – NC State (Safeties/Special Teams)
- 2002-03 – NC State (Linebackers)
- 2000-01 – NC State (Graduate Assistant)
- 1998-99 – Florida State (Graduate Assistant)
Postseason Experience
Manny Diaz has been part of several postseason games throughout his coaching career, including bowl games and national championship games, showcasing his extensive experience and expertise in college football coaching.