Local Alcorn fans’ reactions to hiring of Melvin Spears positive

ASU Braves Coach Melvin Spears

NATCHEZ, MS — Alcorn State football fans in Natchez say they are excited to begin a new era of Braves football. Henry Houze, president of the Natchez Chapter of the Alcorn State University National Alumni Association, said he’s glad Spears was selected as the new coach.

“He’s a product of our university and has tremendous experience, being out of school for 28 years,” Houze said. “He was a SWAC title and black college national championship (when he coached at Grambling State). He’s a proven winner.”

Spears comes to Alcorn after serving as offensive coordinator at Alabama State for the past two seasons. Houze said Spears’ years of experience in the SWAC will play to his advantage at Alcorn, especially in recruiting athletes to play for the Braves.

Spears' goal: Entertain you

His eyes hidden behind black sunglasses, his body draped in a khaki suit, Melvin Spears gave Alcorn State fans on Wednesday what he hopes to put on the football field this fall: An entertaining show. During a 20-minute voice-raising, fist-pounding speech, Alcorn's new coach didn't hide his brash, sometimes cocky, persona.

In fact, the former Alcorn receiver and Grambling State head coach let his audacious aura take center stage in front of about 100 purple-clad fans - all crammed into a meeting room at the downtown Jackson Marriott hotel.

He was confident - "We're going to win these games," Spears said. He was bold - "Alcornites ... we've always been the best," he said. He was loud - "This is my house! This is our house!" Spears yelled to them.
And, he's prepared to amuse - "Our task is to come in on Saturdays and entertain you. That's what it's all about. It's about showtime," he said.


Videographer: chicagomarchingbands

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