UCLA football coach Bob Chesney vows to revitalize program

Bob Chesney has taken over as head coach of the UCLA Bruins football team, signing a $33.75 million contract. He has attracted attention for his upbeat approach, having players sing the school fight song each morning and encouraging a camaraderie that extends beyond practice, exemplified by a recent pool party at the home of women’s basketball coach Cori Close.

Chesney, a native of a Pennsylvania coal‑country town, rose from coaching at small colleges such as Salve Regina and Assumption before landing the high‑profile role at a Big Ten‑level program. He emphasizes “no limits” and a player‑first mentality, often training alongside his athletes and demanding they “lift with the players.” The new coach hopes to transform a historically struggling program into a competitive contender.

His optimism has won over skeptics in Los Angeles, with observers noting the unusual ceremonies and his focus on building a winning culture at UCLA.