Charlie Ward discusses his connection with Jim Rome and Florida A&M.

Head Coach Charlie Ward Embraces Rattler Roots at Florida A&M

In an intimate conversation on Jim Rome's radio show, new Florida A&M (FAMU) head basketball coach Charlie Ward delved into his profound ties to the esteemed institution, even being born on campus. This deep-rooted connection has been a recurring theme as Ward took on his head coach position earlier this month.

"Well, the hospital was right there on campus. It's actually the administrative building, and I was doing my HR work there. Talk about a full-circle moment! When they mentioned that was the hospital, of course I don't remember, but I was grateful that I had this opportunity to return to the place where I was born. My parents met at FAMU, and I have an older sister who graduated from there. I feel incredibly fortunate to carry on their legacy in my new role at FAMU."

Ward's familial connection with FAMU stretches far beyond its campus boundaries. His father, Charlie Ward Sr., was a celebrated running back for FAMU under the illustrious coach Jake Gaither. Ward Sr. shared the gridiron with notable figures like Olympian and NFL Hall-of-Famer Bob Hayes[1][2]. Ward himself was born in Tallahassee and fondly remembers watching numerous Rattler home games as a child, traveling from Thomasville, Georgia[5]. The sentimental attachment to FAMU was evident during Ward's introductory press conference, with his ties to the institution spurring his passion for the position even more.

"This is the sole collegiate job I was willing to accept. Many of you might recognize me as a Seminole, but I was born a Rattler. The chance to join FAMU in this capacity was more than welcoming," Ward expressed[5].

Known for his exceptional athleticism, Ward excelled as a two-sport athlete in football and basketball during his time at Florida State University (FSU). Over his career, he threw for a staggering 5,747 yards and 49 touchdowns, completing an impressive 62.3% of his passes. He also rushed for 889 yards and scored 10 rushing touchdowns. At FSU, Ward played a pivotal role in the team's first national championship, clinching an 18-16 victory over Nebraska in the 1993 Orange Bowl[3].

Yet, basketball was Ward's first love. Alongside future NBA stars Bob Sura and Sam Cassell, he led the Seminoles to considerable success. His teams reached the Sweet Sixteen in 1992 and the Southeast Regional Final in 1993. Ward holds FSU records for career steals (236), steals in a game (9), and sixth place in career assists (396). Despite a truncated senior season due to winning the Heisman Trophy, he averaged 10.5 points and 4.9 assists while starting 16 games as point guard[4].

With basketball being his primary passion, Ward chose to pursue a professional career in the sport. Drafted by the New York Knicks as the 26th pick in the first round of the 1994 NBA Draft, Ward brings coaching experience to FAMU, having served as an assistant coach with the Houston Rockets during the 2005-06 and 2006-07 seasons. He has also served as a high school head coach in the Tallahassee area and with USA basketball[3][4].

Now, Ward embarks on a new journey as he strives to create a winning tradition for the Rattlers and revitalize the basketball program to its former glory[5].

[1] Source: ESPN College Sports

[2] Source: Tallahassee Democrat

[3] Source: Big 92.7

[4] Source: Seminoles.com

[5] Source: Jim Rome On Sports

As a tribute to his deep-rooted ties, new Florida A&M head basketball coach Charlie Ward revealed that he was born on the Campus' hospital, which is part of the administrative building.
Ward's emotional connection with Florida A&M spans beyond its borders, as his father, a celebrated running back for FAMU, played alongside Olympic and NFL Hall-of-Famer Bob Hayes.
In his basketball career at Florida State University (FSU), Ward achieved remarkable success, throwing for over 5,700 yards, completing 62.3% of his passes, and attaining the national championship in 1993.
Drafted by the New York Knicks, Ward returns to Tallahassee to restore the basketball program at Florida A&M, where he aims to create a winning tradition and revitalize the Rattlers to their former championship glory.