The American Football Coaches Association announced Wednesday that Tennessee's John Chavis is the organization's 2006 Division I-A Assistant Coach of the Year. Chavis is one of five coaches in the different divisions of college football to be selected for dedication to their teams and communities.
"It's a great honor to be selected," Chavis said. "Anytime you're recognized by your peers it's special, it's truly special. The people in this profession know what's happening on a daily basis and they see things other people don't see. They're in the same battles we are in, and to be recognized by your peers is the greatest compliment that can be paid.
"It also shows what we've been able to do here at Tennessee through the years. Obviously, we have a great staff to work with in Dan Brooks, Steve Caldwell and Larry Slade, and Coach Fulmer brings it all together. This award reflects what they've done as well as what I've done."
Working through a lineup decimated by off-season departures and early season injuries, Chavis and the defensive staff helped return the Vols to Southeastern Conference championship contention in 2006. UT enters the bowl season 9-3 overall and 5-3 in the SEC, good enough for second place in the Eastern Division after a 5-6 overall finish one year ago.
Off a defense that finished first in the league in 2005 and second nationally with a rushing unit that allowed just 82.5 yards per game, Tennessee lost seven starters to graduation and another to early departure for the NFL. In addition to cornerback Roshaun Fellows' decision to undergo shoulder surgery, Tennessee then lost two additional starters in Justin Harrell and Inquoris Johnson to season-ending injuries in September.
Still, UT has a chance for its fourth 10-win season in the last six years.
CHAVIS NAMED 2006 AFCA ASSISTANT COACH OF THE YEAR
11-29-2006, 01:50 PM
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