Edward Pointer enters his 8th season at Virginia Union University as the Assistant Head Coach, Defensive Coordinator, and Linebackers Coach. He has been instrumental in guiding the Panthers to back-to-back CIAA Championships in 2023 and 2024, solidifying the program as one of the premier forces in Division II football. For his efforts, he was honored as the American Football Coaches Association Division II Assistant Coach of the Year in 2023.
Over the past two seasons, Coach Pointer has coordinated one of the nation’s most dominant defenses, ranking top 10 nationally in 10 major categories. Highlights of the 2023 season included leading the country in rushing defense (51.7 ypg), allowing just three rushing touchdowns all year, forcing 28 turnovers, and finishing third nationally in total defense (232.8 ypg) while producing 10 All-CIAA honorees.
In 2024, his unit built on that dominance—posting three shutouts, once again finishing #3 in the CIAA in scoring defense, and powering VUU to the NCAA Division II National Quarterfinals against Valdosta State. Across his tenure, his defenses have consistently developed All-Conference and All-American performers while setting the standard for toughness and execution.
Coaching Career
Before returning to Virginia Union, Coach Pointer spent two seasons at Saint Augustine’s University (2016–2017), serving as Defensive Coordinator in his final year. Under his guidance, the Falcons finished top three in the CIAA in scoring defense, tied for first in sacks (31), and placed multiple players on the All-Conference team.
He also coached at Elizabeth City State University (2014–2015) as the Running Backs and Tight Ends Coach, marking his second stint with the program after serving as an assistant from 2005–2007.
Coach Pointer is no stranger to the Panther sidelines. He spent three seasons at VUU from 2009–2010 (Linebackers and Defensive Coordinator) and six seasons from 1998–2003 as Linebackers Coach, helping lead the program to a CIAA Championship in 2001.
Throughout his career, he has coached 20 All-CIAA players, three All-Americans, and two NFL athletes, while appearing in four CIAA Championship Games (2000, 2001, 2003, 2006).
Playing Career & Personal Background
A native of Richmond, Virginia, Pointer was a standout linebacker for Virginia Union from 1994–1997. Following his collegiate career, he signed with the Montreal Alouettes of the Canadian Football League before a leg injury cut short his professional career.
Coach Pointer earned his Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems from Virginia Union in 2000. In his free time, he enjoys reading, listening to music, cycling, and spending quality time with his daughter.
