Sep 15, 2024; Charlotte, North Carolina, USA; Carolina Panthers cornerback Troy Hill (13) takes the field against the Los Angeles Chargers during the first quarter at Bank of America Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images Jim Dedmon-Imagn Images

Oregon Duck Star, NFL Defensive Back Troy Hill Hired As Coach At Renowned Program

Originally posted on Oregon Ducks on SI
By Gabriel Duarte | Last updated May 14, 2025 11:03 AM ET

A former Oregon Duck is making waves in the high school football world.

Troy Hill, a defensive back who played ten years in the NFL, was announced as the next head coach of his high school alma mater, St. Bonaventure High School in Ventura, California on Tuesday.

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Hill said in an official press release that he is excited to head back to his roots for his new head coaching gig, the first of his post-playing career.

“This is where it all started for me,” Hill said. “St. Bonaventure gave me the discipline, support, and faith to believe in something bigger than myself. I’m excited to give back by helping shape the next generation-not just as athletes, but as young men of character. Character builds champions. Wins are great, but I'm here to develop young men who lead with purpose, faith, and heart."

St. Bonventure's principal Christina Castro said that Hill embodies everything the school upholds.

"Troy Hill is more than just a football player-he's a Seraph," said Principal Castro. "We're thrilled to welcome him home and look forward to the leadership and inspiration he will bring to
our student-athletes."

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Hill is taking over one of the most storied programs in Southern California. Interestingly enough, the Serapahs have produced multiple stars at the next level including former USC wide receiver Whitney Lewis and Florida State running back Lorenzo Booker. St. Bonaventure has captured 11 sectional titles and two states titles as a program. The Seraphs most recently won their latest sectional title in 2023.

St. Bonaventure is coming off one of their most successful periods in recent memory. The Seraphs won the 2023 CIF Southern Section Division 3 championship, defeating current UCLA quarterback Nico Iamaleava and the Warren Bears, 24-21.

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Hill suited up for the Ducks from 2010-14 and appeared in 49 games for Oregon. Over the span of his collegiate career, he racked up 169 tackles, 35 pass deflections, and three interceptions. During his senior season in 2014, Hill was named as an All-Pac-12 Second Team member after putting up 71 tackles, 19 pass deflections, two forced fumbles, and one interception.

Although he would go undrafted in the 2015 NFL Draft, Hill bounced around during that offseason and eventually latched on with the then-St. Louis Rams and spent five seasons with the organization. In the final season of his first stint with the Rams, Hill had his best season as a pro. He produced a career-high 77 tackles, 10 pass deflections, and three interceptions as a 16-game starter for the playoff bound team.

Hill found himself on an NFL roster as recently as last season when he was signed to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. During his 10-year long NFL career, the Oregon product accumulated 414 tackles, 41 pass deflections, nine interceptions, and three sacks.