Head Coach Dave Clawson has announced the addition of four support-staff roles and the promotion of four staff members within the Wake Forest football program.
WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. – Wake Forest Athletics and head coach Dave Clawson unveiled the appointment of four new football support staff members and the promotion of four existing staff members, including two coaches.
James Adams, Associate Head Coach / Safeties
James Adams, a Wake Forest alum who joined the staff in February 2022, enters his third season with the Demon Deacons in 2024 and has been elevated to the role of Associate Head Coach / Safeties. Adams has overseen the development of an outstanding safeties unit that has been pivotal in the team’s defensive improvements over the past two seasons.
During the 2023 regular season, Wake Forest’s defense earned high marks, with an overall grade of 84.8 from PFF, ranking 45th nationally. The team also excelled in run defense, ranking in the top 50 with a grade of 82.4. Moreover, Wake Forest was among the nation’s best in red zone defense, tying for 22nd with only 76.9 percent of opponent red zone trips resulting in scores, and allowing just 51.3 percent of those trips to end in touchdowns.
In 2023, the Deacons forced 43 three-and-outs and held opponents to a three-and-out rate of 28.5 percent of drives. Adams played a key role in the defense that secured 16 turnovers during the 2022 season, contributing to Wake Forest’s victory in the Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla Bowl and marking the program’s 11th bowl win.
Adams has brought extensive coaching experience to Wake Forest, including a stint at Purdue as the cornerbacks coach, where the team achieved notable success in passing defense. His coaching career began at his alma mater as a graduate assistant, following his collegiate playing days at Wake Forest, where he earned accolades as a linebacker.
Nick Tabacca, Assistant Head Coach for Offense / Offensive Line
Nick Tabacca, entering his 11th season with the Deacons in 2024, has played a pivotal role in transforming Wake Forest’s offensive line and contributing to the team’s record-breaking offensive performances under offensive coordinator Warren Ruggiero. Recently promoted to Assistant Head Coach for Offense, Tabacca has been instrumental in the Deacons’ offensive success, setting nearly 400 school records since 2017, including points scored, total offensive yards, and passing yards.
Under Tabacca’s guidance, Wake Forest has maintained a strong rushing attack, surpassing 2,000 rushing yards in four of the past seven seasons and ranking among the top in rushing touchdowns in the ACC. His leadership has been crucial in developing NFL prospects like Michael Jurgens, a standout lineman drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 2024.
Katie Bason, Director of Recruiting Operations and Roster Management
Katie Bason, promoted to Director of Recruiting Operations and Roster Management ahead of the 2024 season, has been a key figure in managing Wake Forest’s recruiting operations since joining the program in June 2023. Bason brings a wealth of experience from previous roles at FIU and Ole Miss, where she oversaw recruiting logistics and player development, contributing to the success of both programs.
Kate Ruley, Executive Assistant to the Head Coach and Event Coordinator – Football
Kate Ruley, who assumed the role of Executive Assistant to the Head Coach and Event Coordinator – Football in January 2022, has been integral in supporting head coach Dave Clawson and organizing various football events. With prior experience in sports nutrition and private practice, Ruley has been a valuable asset to the Wake Forest football staff.
Rian McCarthy, Coordinator of Creative Content
Rian McCarthy joined Wake Forest in May 2024 as the Coordinator of Creative Content, bringing expertise in graphic design and multimedia production to enhance the football program’s digital presence and recruiting efforts.
Christopher Monfiletto, Special Teams Analyst
Chris Monfiletto joined Wake Forest as a Special Teams Analyst for the 2024 season, bringing a wealth of coaching experience from his previous roles at Colorado State and Rice University. His background includes leadership positions at Kenyon College and Lycoming College, where he made significant contributions to player development and program success.
Izaiah Prouse-Lackey, Offensive Quality Control
Izaiah Prouse-Lackey, a former student-athlete at Florida State, joined Wake Forest in 2024 as an Offensive Quality Control staff member, bringing a diverse coaching background from his experiences at East Tennessee State University and Murray State University.
Nasir Greer, Defensive Quality Control
Nasir Greer, a Wake Forest graduate and former All-ACC player, returns to his alma mater as a Defensive Quality Control staff member. Greer brings extensive experience as a professional athlete and assistant coach, having played for the Kansas City Chiefs and in the XFL while coaching at Landmark Christian School.
These additions and promotions reflect Wake Forest’s commitment to enhancing its football program and building on its recent successes in the ACC and on the national stage.
