UPDATE: The University of Houston has just announced the hiring of Bennie Wylie as its new Director of Football Strength and Performance, effective immediately. This pivotal appointment comes just months after the tragic passing of former director Kurt Hester, who lost his battle with cancer in October 2025.
Wylie, who resigned from his position at Huntsville ISD on January 1, is recognized as one of the top strength and conditioning coaches in the nation. His impressive track record includes training 56 NFL draft picks, among them six first-round selections. The announcement marks a turning point for the Cougars as they seek to build strength and resilience in their football program following Hester’s untimely death.
The University of Houston expressed confidence in Wylie’s abilities, citing his extensive experience with elite teams, including the Dallas Cowboys and Oklahoma University. Wylie is expected to bring innovative training techniques and a commitment to athlete wellness that he fostered at Huntsville ISD, where he focused on health initiatives for student athletes.
The emotional weight of Hester’s absence looms large over the program. He was a beloved figure, remembered not only for his coaching prowess but also for his courageous fight against cancer. Just before his passing, Hester was featured on ESPN, sharing his journey while continuing to support his team. The Cougars dedicated their victory against Arizona to him, posting on social media, “That was for you, Coach.”
As Wylie steps into this critical role, the UH football team is now looking forward to a new era of strength and performance. Fans and players alike are eager to see how his expertise will shape the upcoming season.
Stay tuned for further updates as Wylie begins his journey with the Cougars, and watch for his first official training session, expected to take place shortly. This is an important moment not just for the team but for the entire UH community as they rally around their new strength coach.
