RALEIGH, N.C. — Shaw University Athletics announced Thursday the hiring of Bacchus Grant as the first head coach in program history for the university's newly established women's flag football program.

Grant currently serves as Shaw University's Director of Student Success and Retention and brings experience in coaching, personal training and student development to the Lady Bears' newest program.

"We are excited to name Bacchus Grant as the leader of our women's flag football program," said Interim Director of Athletics Dr. Randy McClure. "His familiarity with our campus community and student body, combined with his passion for mentorship and development, made him a prime candidate for this position. We are confident his leadership will help establish a strong foundation for our program both competitively and academically."

As head coach, Grant will oversee the development and growth of Shaw's women's flag football program as the university prepares to begin competition in spring 2027. His vision centers around building a disciplined and supportive culture where student-athletes can excel on the field, in the classroom, and throughout the community.

"I am honored to have the opportunity to lead the Women's Flag Football program here at Shaw University," said Grant. "This is an exciting time for the university and for the growth of the sport. I look forward to building a culture of excellence, developing strong student-athletes and creating a program that the Shaw community can be proud of."

In his current role at Shaw, Grant leads initiatives focused on student engagement, academic persistence, and overall student achievement while collaborating with faculty, staff, and campus partners to support student success from enrollment through graduation.

Outside of his work at Shaw, Grant also serves as a coach and co-operator of a youth sports development academy focused on athletic training, mentorship, and leadership development for young athletes.

A native of Raleigh, Grant earned his bachelor's degree from North Carolina Central University.