Coach Jesse Burleson's Story

I came to Hardin-Simmons because I knew that I wanted to be a college football player and eventually a coach. Nobody in my family had ever attended college, so I had no idea how I was going to do that. Luckily, God’s plan was greater than mine. I stumbled across Hardin-Simmons University, and after talking with the head football coach at the time, I knew this was where I wanted to be.

After I graduated, I coached high school football for six years. I came back to HSU in 2006 because it was my dream to return to the place that brought me so much joy as a student. There are a lot of things that brought me back here. My teammates, coaches, and I formed a bond that can never be broken. My professors also made a big impact on my life. They taught me that I could be more than I ever thought I imagined. That inspiration is one of the reasons I stayed as an undergrad and it’s the reason I stay here now.

There are so many things that make Hardin-Simmons special, but one of the most important is the overall environment and culture. The people control the environment. We all respect each other because of the knowledge that we’re all God’s children and we’re all here for His greater purpose.

The first thing we look for in our players is their character. We want to see that they live with high standards and integrity. We want to see guys who are willing to strengthen their walk with Christ. If we can find guys who are willing to do that, who have a passion to excel academically, and who are great football players, then that’s the combination we’re looking for.

At Hardin-Simmons, we don’t just talk about family—we live it day in and day out. I get to see this program from a lot of different angles. I have two biological daughters, but as a coach, I have a lot of sons. They aren’t biological, but I love them like they are. Whenever I see them graduate, get jobs and start families of their own, I am so proud of them. I’m so glad I get to be a part of their lives. What I want to do here is help mold young men and help make them better husbands and better fathers, but I also want to win a national championship and I know both are going to happen.

Hardin-Simmons to me is a place where champions are made. Not just champions on the athletic field, but champions in life. This university allows you to grow and expand and experience things you couldn’t experience anywhere else. Those who come to this university and experience all we have to offer will be a champion. Those who stay will be champions.