In the world of college football, where stories of triumph and transformation abound, Bryant Haines’ journey stands out. Last year, he was a finalist for the prestigious Broyles Award, which honors the nation’s top assistant coach.
At that time, he shared a personal milestone with a crowd of a thousand-he and his wife, Kira, were expecting their first child. Fast forward a year, and Haines returned to the ceremony, this time hoisting the 70-pound trophy with his wife and their seven-month-old daughter by his side.
"This event is filled with first-class people, and sharing my life with them is a privilege," Haines remarked. "Being associated with this award and Coach Frank Broyles is an incredible honor."
The accolades for Haines and Indiana keep rolling in, especially after their incredible undefeated season that culminated in a national championship. From being the underdogs to achieving a perfect 16-0 record, the Hoosiers’ transformation is a tale for the ages. Haines’ daughter, Grace, has been a good luck charm, witnessing every victory firsthand.
Everywhere Haines goes, he's reminded of their historic season. Fans frequently stop him, and his phone buzzes with congratulations.
The office of head coach Curt Cignetti is adorned with championship trophies, a testament to their success. Yet, for Haines, the full impact of their achievements hasn't fully settled in.
"There are moments when I realize we've done something special," Haines shared. "But the enormity of it all probably won't hit me for another year. We’re always preparing for the next challenge, as Coach Cignetti emphasizes a process-oriented approach."
Even during a brief getaway at Oaklawn Resort, Haines’ mind was on football. He joked about needing to review film to understand how they allowed so many rushing yards against Miami in the championship game. Despite that, Indiana's defense was formidable, ranking in the top five nationally in multiple categories, including scoring defense and total defense.
Winning is a familiar feeling for Haines, having worked alongside Cignetti for most of his career. Their partnership has been incredibly successful, boasting a 108-28 record across various programs. This winning mentality makes their recent achievements feel almost routine.
Haines' future looks promising. Many Broyles Award winners have gone on to become head coaches, and while he has drawn interest from other programs, he remains committed to Indiana. His recent three-year, $9.3 million contract makes him the highest-paid assistant coach in college football, underscoring his value.
"I believe in loyalty and the stability it brings," Haines explained. "Coach Cignetti and I have built a strong, trust-filled relationship, and that makes for a great working environment."
For now, Haines isn’t eyeing a head coaching position. His passion lies in the intricacies of the game-schematics, game plans, and defensive strategies.
"I love the X's and O's," he said. "That’s where my heart is right now.
Maybe one day I’ll consider being a head coach, but for now, I’m focused on what I love doing."