Moravian Selects Chris Sapp as Head Football Coach
BETHLEHEM, Pa. --- Moravian University has selected University of Rochester (N.Y.) Associate Head Coach Chris Sapp as its next Head Football Coach effective March 23.
BETHLEHEM, Pa. --- Moravian University has selected University of Rochester (N.Y.) Associate Head Coach Chris Sapp as its next Head Football Coach effective March 23.
"Chris Sapp brings exactly the kind of energy, commitment, and competitive vision we want leading Moravian football," commented Moravian University President Dr. Bryon L. Grigsby '90. "He has a proven ability to develop players both on the field and as people — and we believe he's the right person to take this program to the next level. Moravian is lucky to have him, and I couldn't be more excited to welcome him to the Moravian family."
Sapp comes to Bethlehem after serving as the Associate Head Coach/Defensive Coordinator/Defensive Backs Coach at Rochester since 2018. While at Rochester, Sapp helped the Yellow Jackets turn the program around with the squad earning an appearance in the ECAC Clayton Chapman Bowl Game in 2024. He also coached a total of 33 Liberty League All-Conference players, five All-Region selections and one All-American.
"After conducting a national search, I am thrilled to welcome Chris Sapp as the new head football coach to the Moravian family," noted Moravian University Senior Associate Athletic Director/Senior Woman Administrator Rebecca May. "The search committee was intentional in identifying a leader who understands the values and priorities of NCAA Division III athletics, and it became clear throughout the process that he possesses the vision, leadership, and character necessary to guide our program forward. He brings a strong commitment to developing student-athletes both on the field and in the classroom, and we believe his energy and passion for mentoring young men will have a tremendous impact on our football program and the broader Moravian community."
Prior to coaching at Rochester, Sapp spent six seasons at Bowdoin (Maine) College, working in the roles of special teams coordinator, defensive backs coach, running backs coach, defensive line coach and recruiting coordinator. Sapp was a guest coach/assistant coach for special teams with the Calgary Stampeders of the Canadian Football League in 2014. Sapp's coaching career also includes stints as an administrative assistant for football operations at Clemson University in 2005-06, assistant coach for wide receivers and kick returners at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute from 2006-10 and defensive graduate assistant at Middle Tennessee State University from 2010-12.
"It's an honor to have my first head coaching position at a place like Moravian," stated Sapp. "I've been preparing for this opportunity for the past few years. I'm filled with a mix of excitement, anxiousness and readiness as I step into this new role. I know the sky's the limit for what I can achieve.
"My goal is to establish a winning culture that will lay the groundwork for our players, enabling them to graduate from a great institution," Sapp continued. "We will strive for conference championships, and they will cherish the memories of being part of something truly special."
Sapp was a three-year starter and two-year captain at North Greenville (S.C.) University where he graduated with a bachelor's degree in sports management and a minor in business administration in 2005. Sapp earned his master's degree in health and human performance at Middle Tennessee State in 2011.
Moravian is slated to begin its 100th season on the gridiron on Saturday, September 5 when the Greyhounds host rival Muhlenberg College at Rocco Calvo Field at 1:00 p.m.
"It presents a unique opportunity to become a part of a program that is celebrating its 100th year of football," Sapp said. "By joining this program, I'll have the chance to build upon its rich legacy and pave the way for a new century, supported by the unwavering backing of the University and the vibrant campus community.
"I would like to thank President Bryon Grigsby, Dr. Nicole Loyd, Rebecca May, and the search committee for the belief in me and my vision for Moravian University and the football program," Sapp finished.
