BRUINS Have Their Guy
UCLA has officially named Bob Chesney the 20th head coach in the history of its football program, bringing in a proven program-builder with a reputation for winning at every level of college football.
By Earl Heath | Contributing Sports Writer
UCLA has officially named Bob Chesney the 20th head coach in the history of its football program, bringing in a proven program-builder with a reputation for winning at every level of college football.
“UCLA is a very special place… this is a program that can and WILL win at the highest level,” Chesney said in a statement. “What stood out to me is the passion of UCLA’s administration, alumni, and fanbase. Their pride and willingness to invest in this program’s rise create powerful momentum for what’s ahead. Leadership is ready. The alumni are ready. The fanbase is ready. And I am ready.”
Chesney arrives in Westwood with more than 25 years of collegiate coaching experience, including 16 seasons as a head coach across NCAA Division III, Division II, FCS and FBS levels. His résumé features:
- 132–51 career record (.721)
- Eight conference championships
- 13 All-Americans developed
- A track record of rebuilding programs quickly and sustaining long-term success
Wherever he has coached, winning has followed — something UCLA athletic leadership believes will translate to the Big Ten era.
The Bruins, coming off a difficult season and a period of transition, emphasized the need for stability, modern leadership, and a commitment to resources and investment in today’s rapidly evolving college football landscape.
“Bruins — we need each and every one of you,” the program said in its announcement. “We are committed to the investment required to produce a winning program in this era of college football.”
Chesney now steps into one of the nation’s most recognizable programs, sitting in a fertile recruiting region and backed by an administration eager to elevate UCLA football to championship standards.
