Terry Hawthorne - Football Coach - Southern Illinois University Athletics

Terry Hawthorne

Title:
Cornerbacks
Email:
terry.hawthorne@siu.edu

Cornerbacks coach Terry Hawthorne joined the Saluki coaching staff in 2022 and has mentored a pair of all-conference cornerbacks in Mark Davis Jr. and DJ Johnson. His work with the secondary has been instrumental in helping the Salukis advance to the Sweet 16 of the FCS Playoffs in 2023 and post marquee wins over Big Ten Northwestern (2022) and Northern Illinois (2023).

after serving as the Director of High School Personnel & Alumni Relations at Arkansas. Hawthorne previously served as an assistant coach at his high school alma mater, East St. Louis (IL) from 2014-2020.

Hawthorne played defensive back at Illinois from 2009-2012, helping lead the Fighting Illini to a Texas Bowl victory over Baylor in 2010 and a Fight Hunger Bowl victory over UCLA in 2011, where he scored on a 39 yard interception return and was named the Defensive MVP of the game. Hawthorne played in 44 games with 34 starts during his Fighting Illini career, totaling 163 tackles, 12.5 TFLs, 1.0 sack, six interceptions (two pick-six TDs), and 28 pass breakups, plus 18 kick returns for 341 yards. He was an integral part of the 2011 Illini defense that ranked seventh nationally in total defense (286.2 ypg) and third nationally in pass defense (162.3 ypg).

As a player at East St. Louis High School, Hawthorne played wide receiver, defensive back, punter, punt returner and kickoff specialist. During his senior year, Hawthorne scored 28 touchdowns and recorded 1,009 receiving yards as a senior, while defensively, he recorded 118 tackles and eight interceptions, three returned for touchdowns, and one fumble recovery. His was named as a 2008 USA Today High School All-American as a wide receiver.

Following his playing career, Hawthorne returned to East St. Louis in 2014 and helped the Flyers to two IHSA state titles as a coach. He has helped more than 20 East St. Louis football student-athletes to Division I scholarships, including five players that were ranked in the top 40 of Illinois in the class of 2020.

Hailing from East St. Louis, Terry brings a deep understanding of the importance of community and family to his coaching philosophy. He is known for his ability to connect with players, fostering a supportive and motivating environment that encourages athletes to excel not only on the field but also in their personal lives.

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