Blake Sims, Ronnie Clark Join UWA Football Coaching Staff

LIVINGSTON, AL — University of West Alabama football coach Scott Cochran on Thursday announced the addition of former Alabama football player Ronnie Clark as the team's running backs coach and former Crimson Tide quarterback Blake Sims as wide receivers coach.

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Clark is a native of Calera and has connections with Cochran going back to their time at the University of Alabama when played running back, linebacker and even safety.

"Ronnie Clark played multiple positions for us at Alabama, but what he was really known for was his energy and leadership," Cochran said. "He was always on the Leadership team, and he was as much a coach as he was a player."

UWA says Clark played for Alabama from 2014-2018, sharing a backfield with notable running backs like Najee Harris, Josh Jacobs, Derrick Henry, Damien Harris, and Brian Robinson. He also earned two national championships and four SEC Championships.

Clark transitioned to coaching at Brookwood High School went on to elevate his coaching in the college ranks at West Alabama.

"I'm excited and fired up for Ronnie," Cochran said. "He will bring a high level of detail and help our running backs play fast and physical."

Cochran said Blake Sims also brings a wealth of experience to the coaching staff as the new wide receivers coach after playing for Alabama from 2010-2014 and garnering national recognition during his time as a player.

Sims was a part of two national championship teams in 2012 and 2013 before becoming the starting quarterback in 2014. Sims threw for 3,487 yards and 28 touchdowns during his senior season, earning Second Team All-SEC honors and leading Alabama to a College Football Playoff appearance.

Sims went on to sign with the Toronto Argonauts of the Canadian Football League, later playing in the NFL with the Atlanta Falcons and Tampa Bay Buccaneers before retiring in 2022.

Sims began his coaching career at Mt. Bethel Christian Academy in 2023, where he served as offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach before joining Cochran's staff at West Alabama.

"Blake Sims was an electric player for us at Alabama, and what he brings off the field is just as important," Cochran said. "His energy and enthusiasm to help young men develop will be invaluable for our wide receivers."

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