Dave Roberts Lends a Hand as UCLA Turns the Page with Bob Chesney Hire
Dave Roberts has been the picture of stability for the Los Angeles Dodgers since he took over as manager in 2016. Steady leadership, postseason runs, and a World Series title have defined his tenure. But back at his alma mater, UCLA, the football program has been anything but stable.
Since Roberts took the reins in L.A., the Bruins have cycled through five head coaches - a carousel that now welcomes a sixth with the hiring of Bob Chesney, formerly of James Madison University. And this time, Roberts wasn’t just watching from the sidelines. He was involved.
“I went to UCLA, I’m proud of that,” said Roberts, who still holds the school record for career stolen bases from his days as an outfielder. “With my role in Los Angeles, there’s some opportunities - and I’ve also got some experience and understanding of the university, understanding of the city of Los Angeles - and felt that as an alum, I could add some value. I’m all in on trying to revive this football program, and I feel like I want to do my part to help out in any way I can.”
That’s more than just lip service. According to reports, Roberts played a role in the university’s extensive coaching search - a process that ultimately led to Chesney becoming the top choice to take over the program. It’s a notable moment for a school that’s been searching for consistency on the gridiron for years.
A New Era Begins - Again
The Bruins’ latest coaching change comes after a rocky start to the season. DeShaun Foster, in just his second year at the helm, was dismissed after an 0-3 start. Tim Skipper stepped in as interim head coach and quickly made headlines by leading UCLA to a stunning upset over Penn State - a win that brought a jolt of energy to a fanbase hungry for something to believe in.
Now, Bob Chesney steps into the spotlight. Before his hiring, he had been steering James Madison through an impressive run, including a berth in the College Football Playoff. But before he officially takes over in Westwood, Chesney will finish what he started with the Dukes - a move that speaks volumes about his leadership and loyalty.
Roberts and the Bruin Bond
Roberts’ connection to UCLA has always run deep. In 2020, he was inducted into the UCLA Athletics Hall of Fame, a fitting honor for someone who’s continued to represent the university with pride long after his playing days ended. His willingness to get involved in the football program’s future shows just how much the school still means to him - and how invested he is in seeing it succeed.
Since Roberts became Dodgers manager in 2016, the Bruins have gone through Jim Mora, Jedd Fisch (as interim), Chip Kelly, Foster, and Skipper. That’s a lot of turnover in a short span, and it underscores just how important this latest hire is for UCLA’s long-term vision.
Chesney’s arrival marks yet another fresh start - but this time, there’s a sense of purpose behind it. With Roberts lending his voice and support, and a coach coming off a high-level run at James Madison, the Bruins are hoping this chapter finally brings the kind of stability and success that’s eluded them for nearly a decade.
There’s still work to be done, but one thing’s clear: UCLA isn’t just hiring a coach. They’re trying to reset the culture - and they’ve got some familiar faces helping guide the way.