‘I’ll Probably Never Get Over It’: Oregon State’s Alton Julian Transitions from Player to Coach
Alton Julian’s football journey at Oregon State took an unexpected turn—one that shifted his identity from athlete to mentor. Once a promising defensive back for the Beavers, Julian’s playing career was cut short by a devastating knee injury. Though his time on the field ended prematurely, his love for the game never faded. Now, he’s channeling that passion into a new role: coaching.
Julian admits that letting go of his playing days hasn’t been easy. “I’ll probably never get over it,” he says, referring to the abrupt end of his college career. The injury not only robbed him of valuable playing time but also forced him to reimagine his future. Rather than walking away from the sport entirely, Julian chose to stay connected in the most meaningful way he could—by helping guide the next generation of Beavers.
Now part of Oregon State’s coaching staff as a graduate assistant, Julian brings a unique perspective to the team. His firsthand experience as a player—especially one who battled through adversity—gives him a deep understanding of what student-athletes go through both on and off the field. Players respect him not just for his knowledge, but because he’s walked in their cleats.
Julian’s transition is emblematic of resilience and leadership. He’s turning heartbreak into purpose, and in doing so, he’s shaping lives beyond his own. While the ache of an unfinished playing career still lingers, Julian has found a new kind of fulfillment—one rooted in service, mentorship, and a continued love for the game. Oregon State may have lost a player, but it gained a coach with rare heart and i
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