University of Connecticut Athletics
Coach Hilliard Bringing Passion To Husky DBs
8/17/2022 8:54:00 PM | Football
Aug. 17, 2022
    Step foot into a UConn football practice, and you're bound to see plenty of excitement between players and coaches. However, no one may have more energy on the field than UConn defensive backs coach Dalton Hilliard.
"One thing I'll never stop doing is, I'm going to coach the way I played, with passion and energy, because it's infectious," Hilliard said. "One thing we talk about in the DB (defensive backs) room is igniting the field, setting it on fire with our passion and our energy and letting people feed off of it."
One of the newest coaches on the Huskies, Hilliard brings a level of experience to a set of defensive backs full of talent, but also an addition to a coaching staff set on bringing a new level of passion to Storrs. On this stop of the UConn coach's football journey, it's been special to be able to share his own football wisdom with this group.
           The family atmosphere that has been on constant display for the Huskies describes how close-knit the team has been. With young talent, returning veterans, and an overall showing of guys that are ready to compete every day, Coach Hilliard has seen an incredible evolution amongst this group.
           "I came in here and I asked them the number one thing that they wanted to see improve and that was their camaraderie," said Hilliard. "I definitely am excited about these guys and the way they're playing together and how they coach each other from the sidelines. They hold each other accountable, not only on the field, but off the field."
           From stepping onto the field to competing deep into camp, it's important for every player to buy into the plan, a system designed to push every player to his best results, whether they are just beginning their college football career or taking part in one last dance. Regardless of any obstacles ahead, Coach Hilliard was ready to take on the challenge.
           Despite injury and hardship, Hilliard has seen players like Myles Bell come into camp focused on returning to action and contributing to what the Huskies are trying to achieve.Through the difficult process, one word describes how Coach Hilliard views overcoming adversity in football.
           "Opportunities," Hilliard said. "That's any guy, whether their obstacle is injury, mindset, or whether they're a walk-on or a scholarship player."
           Experienced veterans like Tre Wortham have been essential in establishing leadership and committing to the brotherhood of UConn football. For Hilliard, that's been a huge highlight of fall camp.
           "They have to push the standard and continue to grow this team into what they want it to be," Hilliard said.
           With under two weeks untill the team's first game of the season against Utah State, the UConn secondary is continuing to work hard with the help of Hilliard.Throughout his time with the team, the defensive backfield has always played with Hilliard's greatest lesson in mind.
           "Whether it's a catch or a penalty," he said, "have enough poise to make sure that you come back and you play the next play with the same amount of energy and passion as when you started the game."
