Kentucky Christian University Football: A History of the Knights
The Kentucky Christian University (KCU) Knights football program has a relatively young history, representing the university in the realm of college football. As football-only members of the Mid-South Conference (MSC) within the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), the Knights have strived to establish a competitive presence since the inception of their program.
Founding and Early Years
Kentucky Christian University was founded on December 1, 1919, as Christian Normal Institute, by J. W. Lusby and J. O. Snodgrass. As a normal school its programs included a high school, a junior college, and a training program for public school teachers. The Kentucky Christian athletic teams are called the Knights and Lady Knights. The university is a member of the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA), primarily competing in the Appalachian Athletic Conference (AAC) since the 2019-20 academic year. They were also a member of the National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA), primarily competing as an independent in the Mid-East Region of the Division II level. The Men's Basketball Team has won 7 NCCAA Division II National Championships since 1988.
Inception of the Football Program
The Knights officially began their football journey in 2008, joining the Mid-South Conference (MSC). Their inaugural season concluded with a 1-9 overall record, although they did not participate in any conference games that year. Dane Damron served as the head coach during this initial season.
Coaching Changes and Performance Fluctuations
The Zack Moore Era (2009-2010)
Following Damron's departure, Zack Moore, a former assistant coach from Morehead State, was appointed as the head coach for the 2009 season. Moore's tenure lasted two seasons, during which the Knights struggled to find their footing, amassing an overall record of 1-21. The team finished sixth and seventh in their conference in 2009 and 2010, respectively.
Mike Furrey's Brief Success (2011-2012)
In 2010, KCU Athletics made a notable move by hiring former NFL wide receiver Mike Furrey to lead the football program. Furrey's arrival brought a spark to the Knights, culminating in their best season record to date, with a 7-4 standing in 2012. During his two-year tenure, Furrey achieved an overall record of 11-11.
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Gene Peterson's Leadership (2013-2014)
After Furrey's departure in early 2013, Gene Peterson, previously the head coach at Fleming County High School, took over the reins. Peterson coached the Knights for two seasons, compiling an 8-14 overall record.
Steve Barrows and Subsequent Coaches
Following Peterson's time with the Knights, KCU Athletics appointed Steve Barrows, the former defensive coordinator for the McKendree Bearcats, as the head coach for the 2015 season.
KCU Field
KCU Field was built for the Knights to begin their play at the start of the 2008 season, KCU field was constructed by funds from the university.
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tags: #kentucky #christian #university #football #history
