WEATHERFORD, Okla. – Newly hired SWOSU head football coach Josh Kirkland has announced three new additions to his staff and an exciting promotion for SWOSU alum, and former All-American linebacker, Ruzell McCoy who was appointed new defensive coordinator for the Bulldogs.

All newly hired names are familiar to Kirkland, having been a part of his previous staff at New Mexico Highlands. In the first season of competition at NMHU, Kirkland and company finished 5-6 – the most wins the program had seen since 2012.

Joining Kirkland on the coaching staff from New Mexico Highlands will be Armani Lonardo, Roy Asuega, and David May.

“Being able to bring over a group of guys that know the system I want to run, and that I trust was huge,” Kirkland said. “This allows us to hit the ground running on the new systems we will implement. Systems that I am confident will be effective at SWOSU and will bring a lot of success. Outside of just football, all of these men hold high character and will represent the university and the town of Weatherford well.”

McCoy’s appointment to defensive coordinator comes after three years as SWOSU’s defensive line coach. Though the position is new to him in Weatherford, he is no stranger to the role itself with defensive coordinator experience in the NAIA and junior college ranks.

“I’m more than happy for Coach McCoy. His love for Weatherford and his All-American status makes him truly invested in this program and we can’t wait to see his defense and the product he puts out on the field.”

Armani Lonardo will be the Offensive Coordinator for the Bulldogs. He coached quarterbacks and oversaw recruiting at New Mexico Highlands.

“Coach Lo is a huge addition to our staff and one of the best recruiters I’ve ever been around. His knowledge coaching quarterbacks and his ability to put players in the best position possible to succeed is going to be huge for the offense.”

Roy Asuega will assist Ruzell McCoy as Co-Defensive Coordinator and Defensive Line Coach. For the past two years, he coached defensive line at New Mexico Highlands and was elevated to associate head coach in 2020.

“Coach Asuega is a relationship-driven person who does a great job in the community along with the recruits and the players he interacts with. I’m excited to have him with me.”

David May will be Special Teams Coordinator as well as coach wide receivers and tight ends. He was New Mexico Highland’s Run Game Coordinator and coached running backs previously.

“Coach May was one of the first hires I made at New Mexico Highlands. He’s a great worker and recruiter and does a phenomenal job in the film room. He will do phenomenal things here.”

Kirkland plans on adding at least one more member to his staff for the 2022 campaign.