Zach Morrison is entering his eighth season as the head football coach at Shorter University, a position he has held since being named the program’s third head coach in December 2017. With a vision rooted in the phrase “Brick by Brick,” Morrison has committed himself to building a Christ-centered culture that emphasizes growth, accountability, and excellence on and off the field.
“The program is built on relationships,” Morrison shared. “Relationships with one another, with our coaches, with the community, and most importantly with Jesus Christ. Every day we are working to grow mentally, physically, and spiritually, striving to get 1% better. We want to win the day and compete in everything we do.”
A Georgia native, Morrison spent nearly a decade coaching at the high school level across the state before returning home to Shorter. At Forsyth Central High School in Cumming, GA, he was a four-sport athlete and a three-time All-Region selection in football. He continued his playing career as a member of Shorter’s inaugural football team (2005–2008), starting every game of his career at center. A standout on the field, Morrison was a three-time All-Conference selection, a two-time All-American, and an Academic All-American. He helped lead the Hawks to a Conference Championship his senior year, when the offense finished No. 1 in the nation in rushing. Over his four seasons, Shorter posted a 25–18 record and earned its first playoff appearance.
Morrison’s leadership extended beyond the field. As a member of the Leadership Board, he helped establish the Hawks Covenant, a set of standards for Shorter Football student-athletes. He was also honored with the Allison Ledbetter Award in 2008, recognizing him as Shorter University’s Student-Athlete of the Year. He graduated in 2008 with a degree in history and political science.
“Coaching at Shorter is an honor, a privilege, and a humbling responsibility,” Morrison said. “My time here as a player shaped me into the man I am today, and having the chance to give back to this university means everything to me. This is the best small college in America, and I look forward to working every day with the incredible people who make Shorter special.”
Morrison’s passion, energy, and faith are at the heart of his coaching philosophy. His mission is to develop men of pride, class, and character, student-athletes who represent Shorter well in the classroom, in competition, and in their communities. By grounding the program in biblical principles, Morrison seeks to equip his players not only for success on the field but also for lasting impact in every phase of life.
During his tenure, Morrison has coached multiple All-Gulf South Conference selections and guided tight end Kyle Morlock, who became the third player in school history to earn two-time All-American honors. During his tenure, there have been 20 All-Conference, 3 All-Americans, and 1 Conference Player of the Year. His teams have set numerous school records, including finishing 1st in the NCAA in fewest turnovers and Top 25 nationally in passing touchdowns. Defensively, the Hawks ranked among the best in the Gulf South Conference in total defense in recent seasons.
