TUSKEGEE, Ala. | Over the next few weeks, the Tuskegee University athletic communications office will introduce you to some of the names to along with the faces you see on the sidelines in each of the 12 sports that the department has to offer.
Our second "Getting to Know" is football assistant coach
Ramone Nickerson, a former Golden Tiger.
Nickerson played for the Golden Tigers from 2002 until 2005, before joining the football staff coaching. During his playing days, Nickerson recorded eight interceptions which included returning a pair for touchdowns.
During his senior season, he finished with a team-high four interceptions and three fumble recoveries. He also finished sixth on the team in tackles with 49 – which included 3.5 tackles for loss – and five pass breakups. As a junior, Nickerson had two interceptions and returned one for a touchdown. He also finished second on the team in tackles with 70 – which included three tackles for loss and a pair of sacks. Nickerson finished with three pass breakups and two forced fumbles.
As a sophomore, Nickerson finished with one interception, 39 tackles (three for loss) and three pass breakups. He also finished with one fumble recovery and one blocked kick. He also saw time as a freshman, finished with an interception returning it for a touchdown, recorded 41 tackles (which included 1.5 sacks). He finished with three pass breakups, one fumble recovery and two forced fumbles.
Now let's get to know Nickerson …
What is something people may not know about you (that you are willing to share)?
I like to collect Nike shoes … as a matter of fact, I have probably over 80 pair and maybe have worn each one once or twice.
Tell us about your playing days at Tuskegee.
It was fun, energetic. I loved the coaching staff I played for, definitely one of the reasons I got into coaching. They instilled positive values and allowed me to be a leader and play my role. It helped me to continue to the tradition of winning in the players I coach now.
Defensive backs have long been a staple at Tuskegee, how important is it for you to continue that legacy?
To carry on that legacy speaks volumes, being able to mentor through athletics and having other players I have coached make it to that next level and being successful. They are good guys in the community and carry on the Tuskegee legacy.
Pregame … better as player or as a coach?
Definitely, most definitely, as player. But right now as a coach, being able to look into the eyes of the players ready go to battle and being involved in the pregame I know they are ready.
What is the best part of pregame?
The chant.
Why Tuskegee?
Family oriented, great education. You learn a lifestyle that goes miles beyond your expectations. Being able to build bonds and friendships that you will always cherish and remembers.
How do you want people to remember you?
Hardworking and full energy, simple.
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