Justin Clark is entering his fourth season with the Battling Bishops football program, serving as Associate Head Coach, Offensive Coordinator, Wide Receivers Coach, Recruiting Coordinator, and Head JV Coach.
He joined the staff in January 2022 and was promoted to Offensive Coordinator ahead of the 2023 season.
Under Clark’s leadership in 2023, the offense saw a remarkable turnaround—improving 55 spots nationally and finishing in the top five of the USA South Conference in passing yards per game. The team also jumped fourteen spots nationally in total yards per game.
In Spring 2024, Clark was elevated to Associate Head Coach and was honored with North Carolina Wesleyan University’s “Most Inspirational Award”, given to a faculty or staff member who embodies leadership and positivity across campus.
During the 2024 season, Clark's offense continued to improve significantly:
+56.6 yards per game in total offense
+41.2 rushing yards per game
+15 passing yards per game
Clark helped produce three All-Region selections (D3football.com Region 3 2nd Team All-Region):
Anthony Byrd, who finished 2nd all-time in career rushing yards and attempts
Christian Drumgoole, who set NCWU records for single-game receptions (18) and receiving yards (277 vs. Ferrum)
Desmond Barnes, who was a three time All USA South Selection OL
Over his two seasons as Offensive Coordinator, the Bishops have made major national statistical gains:
+62 spots in Points Per Game
+85 spots in Total Yards Per Game
+43 spots in Rushing Yards Per Game
+76 spots in Passing Yards Per Game
Prior to Wesleyan, Clark was the Head Coach at his alma mater, North Gaston High School (NC). He also served as Offensive Coordinator at Ridge View High School (SC) and Head Coach at North Henderson High School (NC), along with stints as QB Coach and OC at several other programs since 2008.
Clark’s high school coaching career includes appearances in a North Carolina state championship game and multiple conference and regional title games.
A native of Gaston County, NC, Clark was a three-year starting quarterback and graduated from Western Carolina University in 2007 with a B.S. in History, where he is the last Catamount QB to have beat Appalachian State University. He is married to Mary Clark and is the proud father of two daughters: Emma Grace (9) and Isley Ann (8).
