UTC quarterback Jacob Huesman (14) is congratulated by his father, head coach Russ Huesman, after the junior comes out of the game.It was on the Finley Stadium turf, of all places, that Russ Huesman ceased being a football coach and allowed himself a moment’s indulgence as a proud father.
Amid the wild celebration after the victory over Wofford that secured the Southern Conference championship and automatic playoff berth for his University of Tennessee at Chattanooga team, the head coach found the starting quarterback, his son Jacob, and bear-hugged him.
It was there, if only briefly, that coach became dad. Before letting go, Russ said into Jacob’s ear, “I’m proud of you! Thank you for coming here.”
Quarterback Jacob Huesman stretches during practice while his father and University of Tennessee at Chattanooga head coach Russ Huesman watches. For the Huesmans, football is a family affair. The father-son duo is geared up to host Indiana State on Saturday, the team’s first playoff game in 30 years.In a season filled with record-breaking performances and new standards of expectations, that exchange was one that both coach and player, father and son will cherish.
“It’s been great to share this with him,” Coach Huesman said. “I was glad I got the chance to hug him. He’s part of us. He struggled with us. Jacob makes his share of mistakes, but, man, he’s a tough kid, and every coach who plays us, the first thing they say is, ‘What a ballplayer your son is. You’ve got a great quarterback.’