Cordell Upshaw

Cordell Upshaw, the newest assistant coach for Lions football comes from Leesville, Louisiana and graduated from Leesville High School. He then attended Southern Arkansas University where he played collegiate football and also started his college coaching career.

The Lion’s Roar: How did you become a coach?

Cordell Upshaw: I got into coaching right after I finished my college career. I didn’t want to be away from the game of football so I decided to look into the coaching aspect of the game. 

TLR: What’s your favorite thing about being a coach?

CU: I truly enjoy motivating my players to be great.

TLR: Why did you choose Southeastern?

CU: I heard of the opportunity here at Southeastern and everything about it interested me. I knew it was something I wanted to be a part of.

TLR: How is being here different than working at previous schools?

CU: Coming from South Arkansas, the culture is the most different [aspect] but [it is also] something I’m looking forward to.

TLR: Do you have any hobbies?

CU: My hobby would be working out and staying in shape. 

TLR: Do you have any favorite professional teams?

CU: Being from Louisiana, I’m a Saints fan.

TLR:  What are you looking forward to this season?

CU:  I’m looking forward to being part of a great program and competing for another championship.

TLR: What do you enjoy about Hammond so far?

CU: I am enjoying being back in south Louisiana.

TLR: Do you have any inspirational figures?

CU: My dad and grandfather. My dad is just someone I’ve always looked up to and my grandfather is an inspiration because of his military background. He is a retired sergeant major in the United States Army and has a Purple Heart and numerous awards from serving our country.

TLR: Do you have any words of advice for young athletes or students in general?

CU: Stay the course no matter what, and always remember anything worth having requires hard work. If it were easy, everyone would be doing it.