Southern Virginia University

Bill Nixon brings a wealth of experience and a passion for excellence to his role as Defensive Coordinator at Southern Virginia University (SVU). With a background spanning various leadership positions within football operations, Nixon has demonstrated his ability to oversee logistics, enhance player experience, and foster a culture of success. Holding a Ph.D. in Sport Management from Troy University, an M.Ed in Education from Utah State University, and a B.S. in Recreational Management from BYU, Nixon combines academic knowledge with practical expertise.

Before coming to SVU, Nixon served as the Director of Football Operations at Brigham Young University. He directed player experience initiatives, supervised equipment operations, and contributed to developing policies and procedures. Nixon played an integral role in the creation and historic launch of the Built4Life program, a holistic career development program for BYU student-athletes that will prepare them for life beyond BYU Athletics and help them capitalize on future name, image, and likeness (NIL) opportunities. 

In addition to his collegiate experience, Nixon has excelled in coaching at the high school level, leading Spanish Fork High School's lacrosse team to the 2018 class B state championship game. He has also served as a varsity head football coach at American Leadership Academy (UT) from 2014 to 2016, leading the Eagles to the two winningest seasons in school history. Nixon's coaching journey began as a student assistant at BYU under head coach Bronco Mendenhall. The Cougars earned eight bowl appearances during his combined nine seasons at BYU. 

As a former collegiate athlete himself, Nixon understands the importance of player development and the impact of a positive team culture. He represented BYU as a member of the men's lacrosse team, achieving notable successes and helping the Cougars become the 2008 Rocky Mountain Lacrosse Conference Champions and 2011 Men's Collegiate Lacrosse Association National Champions. 

Nixon is married to Chelsea Kimball, with whom he shares four children. He is deeply rooted in his faith, having served a two-year mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Bangalore, India. Originally from Alexandria, Virginia, and a graduate of Hayfield Secondary School, Nixon brings a diverse background and a solid commitment to excellence to his role at Southern Virginia University.