Clawson Departs Wake Forest Sideline After Tremendous Tenure

© Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images

On Dec. 16, the Wake Forest Demon Deacons thanked their head coach Dave Clawson for more than a decade of service to the football program and the school. Clawson will transition to a new role with the university after an epic tenure, spending 11 seasons guiding the football program.

Clawson's Coaching Career

Arriving at Wake Forest in December 2013, Clawson was essential in revitalizing the football program. During his leadership, the Demon Deacons had their most successful stretch in program history. They made seven consecutive bowl games, from 2016 to 2022 where he also secured top-10 recruiting classes in 2021 and 2022. During the bowl game streak, Clawson's teams had five postseason victories, more than any other coach in Wake Forest history.

Coaching at Wake Forest has been the honor of my career," Clawson said. "This is a special place with extraordinary people and I am deeply grateful for the relationships I've built over the last 11 years."

"Dave Clawson has been the epitome of integrity, innovation, and excellence in college football," said Wake Forest Director of Athletics John Currie. "He elevated Wake Forest football to unprecedented heights, not only through success on the field but also by fostering the development of young men as leaders in life."

During his tenure, the Deacons reached a program-best 11-3 record in 2021, earning coach Clawson Atlantic Coast Conference Coach of the Year honors. He also posted a 23-7 home record from 2019-2023. His players found success on the NFL stage, with a school record 13 former Deacons on NFL rosters during the 2023 and 2024 seasons. The program also posted the highest-ever GPA in Fall 2023 when it led the way with 29 Academic All-ACC honorees.

© Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images

The Next Chapter

Following his departure from the sidelines, Clawson will continue as a Special Advisor to Vice President and Director of Athletics Currie. For the Demon Deacons, a national search for their next coach will commence.

"Our student-athletes are always our top priority during such a transition," Currie said. "[We] are committed to ensuring our current football players receive support and guidance during this time."