Elizabeth City State University Athletics

Marcus A. Hilliard '04,  will be entering his second season as the Head Coach at Elizabeth City State University. Hilliard, a former defensive standout for the Vikings, was named to the post on December 14, 2021.

As a former All-CIAA performer and defensive coordinator for the Mighty Vikings, Coach Hilliard brings a storied knowledge of the program and thus, a unique vision to restore the Blue and White back to the days where he led some of the best defensive units in ECSU history.

After a transitional season in year one, Hilliard has taken key steps in laying the foundation to build not only a team but a program that the Viking faithful will be proud of.
Before accepting the position to lead his alma mater, Hilliard spent three seasons as the co-defensive line coach at Virginia Union University. During his time with the Panthers, he was the pro-scout liaison and assisted with managing the football budget and scholarships. A proven leader, widely respected by his peers, he was selected as the American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) Division II Assistant Coach of the Year in 2018.

Prior to his stint with the Panthers, Hilliard spent a total of 14 seasons at ECSU as a player, graduate assistant, position coach and Defensive Coordinator where he produced a combined 25 All-CIAA/D2 All-American performers.

Coach Hilliard is a native of Goldsboro, NC, and holds a B.A. in History and earned his Masters in Sport Management and Administration from the United States Sports Academy in 2007

The Hilliard File
2004-2017 Elizabeth City State Univ.; Assistant Head Coach, Defensive Coordinator, Defensive Line
2018-2021 Virginia Union University; Assistant Head Coach, Defensive Line
2022- Elizabeth City State Univ.- Head Coach