The Winston-Salem State University Rams football coaching staff continued to get stronger with the hiring of Markus McElveen as the team’s defensive line coach. After a terrific collegiate career and a strong coaching career at both the collegiate and high school levels, McElveen is poised to help the Rams defense to new heights.
It was at Shaw University where McElveen had a tremendous playing career. As a four-year starter, he was a member of back-to-back Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA) championship teams in 2007 and 2008 with another championship in 2010. Along with being recognized as an Academic All-American, he also earned All-American and All-CIAA honors multiple times for his play on the field during his career.
McElveen made his return to the collegiate coaching ranks after a strong career at the high school level. For the past two years, McElveen spent time as the defensive coordinator and assistant head coach at Bunnell High School in Stratford, Connecticut. Before joining Bunnell staff, McElveen spent two seasons as defensive coordinator at his alma mater Norwalk High School. He got his coaching career started at another alma mater of his own as he served as an assistant coach at Shaw University. After starting out as a student assistant, McElveen earned a spot as the Defensive line coach a year later.
During McElveen’s first season as the Defensive Coordinator, the Rams defense was ranked nationally and recognized by the AFCA. They finished the season # 10 in total defense, #1 in first down defense, and #4 in red zone defense in the nation (All of D2). They also finished #1 in total defense, #1 first down defense, #1 in red zone, #2 in rushing defense, and #5 in passing defense in the CIAA.
He attributes much of his success to his support circle, which consists of his Father (Mark McElveen), Mother (Lisa Russell), and coaches Richard McGeorge and Darrell Asberry who still mentor him well after his playing days.
McElveen is a 2011 graduate of Shaw University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Therapeutic Recreation & Psychology
