Wales joins the Chanticleers after serving on the Missouri State staff, where he coached the Bears’ running backs during the 2025 season. Under his guidance, Shomari Lawrence earned second-team All-Conference USA honors after a standout campaign that included multiple 100-yard rushing performances and a season-high 173 yards against Kennesaw State. Lawrence ranked among the Conference USA leaders in rushing average, rushing yards per game and all-purpose yards, highlighting Wales’ impact on running back development at the FBS level.
In 2024, Wales’ running backs helped power a record-setting offensive season at Missouri State that featured two all-conference contributors, combining for significant yardage and touchdowns and playing a key role in one of the most productive offenses in program history.
Prior to Missouri State, Wales spent the 2023 season at Louisville as a graduate assistant, contributing to a 10-win season, an ACC Championship Game appearance and a bowl victory. He also previously worked at Western Kentucky, serving in recruiting and quality control roles, and has experience at the high school level in Kentucky.
A native of Louisville, Ky., Wales played collegiately at Western Kentucky, where he earned All-Conference USA honors and appeared on the Doak Walker Award watch list. He holds undergraduate and graduate degrees from Western Kentucky University.
