Back in 2024, UTEP’s new head coach Scotty Walden made a bold promise to the Miners’ faithful: “We are going to show up. Anyone, anywhere, anytime. That’s our mindset. That is our calling card.” With these words, Walden set the tone for his tenure at UTEP, instilling a sense of confidence and determination in his players and fans alike.
However, after a disappointing 2-10 season, Walden is not making excuses or waiting for a helping hand to bring about change. In a move that mimics the actions of Florida State’s head coach Mike Norvell, Walden has decided to take a personal financial hit in order to give back to the university and the football program that he believes in.
Norvell made headlines earlier this year when he announced that he would be giving back a portion of his salary to help support the school’s athletic department during the COVID-19 pandemic. This selfless act caught the attention of Walden, who saw it as an opportunity to lead by example and make a positive impact on his own program.
Walden’s decision to follow in Norvell’s footsteps is a testament to his character and his commitment to the UTEP Miners. It takes a special kind of leader to put the needs of others before their own, and Walden has proven that he is exactly that kind of leader.
In a statement released by the university, Walden explained his decision, saying, “I am blessed to have the opportunity to coach at UTEP and I believe in this program and the direction we are heading. Giving back a portion of my salary is a small way for me to show my commitment to this team and this university.”
This act of generosity not only shows Walden’s dedication to the program, but also his understanding of the challenges that the athletic department is facing. With the cancellation of sports due to the pandemic, universities across the country have been struggling financially. By giving back a portion of his salary, Walden is helping to ensure that the UTEP athletic department can continue to support its teams and provide opportunities for student-athletes.
But Walden’s actions go beyond just financial support. They also serve as a reminder to his players and the entire UTEP community that they are part of something bigger than just a football team. They are part of a family, a family that takes care of each other and works together to overcome challenges.
Walden’s decision to give back also sets a positive example for other coaches and leaders in the sports world. In a time where athletes and coaches are often criticized for their high salaries, Walden’s selfless act shows that there are still those who are willing to put the greater good above their own personal gain.
As the UTEP Miners gear up for the upcoming season, they do so with a renewed sense of purpose and determination. With a coach who is willing to make sacrifices for the betterment of the program, the players are inspired to do the same. They are ready to show up, anywhere, anytime, just as Walden promised back in 2024.
In the end, it’s not about the wins and losses, but about the character and values that are instilled in the players. And with Scotty Walden at the helm, the UTEP Miners are in good hands. His actions speak volumes about his leadership and his commitment to the team. And as they head into the new season, there is no doubt that the Miners will give it their all, with their coach leading the way with his unwavering dedication and selflessness.
In a world where sports can sometimes seem like just a business, it’s refreshing to see a coach like Scotty Walden who truly cares about the well-being of his players and his university. He may have had a tough season, but his actions off the field prove that he is a winner in every sense of the word.