Turner happy to be ‘home’ at Cal U

By JOSE NEGRON

jnegron@yourmvi.com

During his playing career at Cal U, Jawan Turner was more than just a standout defensive lineman and all-PSAC West selection for the Vulcans. 

He developed into a captain by his senior season and served as a vocal leader for a defensive unit that finished in the top 10 in the country in total defense and scoring defense in 2016. 

“He was the coach of that defensive group when he was a senior and he was a great leader,” Cal U head coach Gary Dunn said. “From my first day on campus, Jawan was one of the guys who made the biggest impact. His work ethic, his love of football and his leadership always stood out to me,” 

It’s all come full circle for Turner who is back at Cal U serving as the linebackers coach on Dunn’s staff. 

He is entering his first season in the role after being hired prior to the 2020 season being canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“I’m just happy to be around good people,” Turner said. “Opportunities present themselves and you weigh your options, but when it’s an opportunity with a lot of good people, it’s a no-brainer.

“I got to play for all of these coaches here and I was recruited by coach (Larry) Wilson, so it’s great having the opportunity to be back home.” 

Dunn said Turner was one of the first candidates he talked to once a spot opened on his coaching staff. When they had that discussion, the fifth-year coach knew Turner was the right fit. 

“He blew me away by his knowledge,” Dunn said. “He didn’t get the job because he is a Cal U graduate, he got the job because he was the most qualified candidate to help our defense. I think he is making a great impression on the young guys we have here.” 

To read the rest of the story, please see a copy of Saturday’s Mon Valley Independent, call 724-314-0035 to subscribe or subscribe to our online edition at http://monvalleyindependent.com.