Liam Coen Said Medical Episode Was Wake-Up Call For Him

Vicky Graff Photo

Kentucky offensive coordinator Liam Coen said his “medical episode” at the Kentucky football facility Sunday was a good “wake-up call” for him but he does plan to be back on the sideline coaching Saturday night when UK hosts Akron.

“Liam will be back in his normal capacity which we’re just very grateful [for],” Kentucky coach Mark Stoops said on the SEC coaches teleconference Wednesday afternoon. “I will refrain from saying too much. I’m sure Liam will tell the story as he wishes.”

Stoops said the incident happened while coaches were watching film. Fortunately medical personnel were in the facility evaluating player injuries from Saturday’s win over Eastern Kentucky. UK had announced the incident happened at 12:40 p.m. Sunday and Coen was transported to UK’s Chandler Hospital.

“My family and I thank you for all the support and prayers these past couple of days,” Coen posted on X (formerly Twitter) Wednesday. “The #BBN community is truly amazing. I’m doing much better, thankful for the care I received at UK Chandler Hospital, and can’t wait to see you Saturday at Kroger Field — Go Cats!”

Later in the day Coen met with media members to talk about his “eventful” day.

“First of all, I want to thank the people. The treatment staff here, athletic department, everybody, for their support, the hospital, just acting quickly. There’s not a ton I remember from the situation but probably just need to sleep better, need to eat better, be a better version of myself in terms of doing the stuff that we ask our players to do from a health standpoint,” Coen said after UK’s practice Wednesday. “I think it was a good wake-up call, which is probably a good thing at the end of the day.

“But I can’t thank enough the BBN, the support, the people outreach, that was really cool. It was really to be at a place that you can tell actually does care. I appreciate that, my family appreciates that, that’s really it.”

Coen was released from the hospital Tuesday morning and rejoined the team.

“I woke up Monday morning pretty good at 8 a.m., ready to go — iPad in hand. Just one of those things. Kind of a freak thing and I feel really good right now, just trying to take it a bit easier,” Coen said.

“Maybe it’s better for my life moving forward that I just kinda chill out a little bit. Appreciate everyone’s support and care and concern, but I’m here and I’m good.”

Stoops said Monday that those who thought he was high strung and hard on himself do not know Coen who is even tougher on himself.

“It was just one of those freak things. I appreciate everyone’s care and concern, but I’m here and I’m good,” Coen said.