Jason Candle's Big Move: From Toledo to UConn, Red Sox, and a New Chapter in College Football

From Toledo to UConn: A Long-Awaited Move

Jason Candle has spent 17 years building a legacy in Toledo, first as an assistant and later as head coach, where he became the winningest coach in school history. That tenure included two MAC titles and the development of 13 NFL draft picks — including Kareem Hunt and Logan Woodside — which is a remarkable achievement for any program. Now, Candle is making one of the more underrated moves in college football: leaving Toledo for UConn.

After a successful run in the Mid-American Conference, Candle accepted the head coaching position at UConn, taking over a team that had recently returned to relevance under Jim Mora. With Mora departing for Colorado State, Candle inherited a program with momentum and a clear vision — one he's eager to take further.

"I mean, energized is the word and really eager for a new challenge and a new opportunity," Candle said when reflecting on his departure from Toledo. "Change is hard. But I'm excited for change."

Building UConn's Future: Culture and Community

Candle's early impression of UConn has been one of strong culture and institutional support. While basketball remains the crown jewel of the athletic department, Candle recognizes how important it is to lean into that strength — not just to compete, but to thrive.

"Basketball is a monster here," he noted. "I think a lot of the other successful coaches in the department have really leaned into those two programs and what they've been — a picture of success and consistency."

He's also taken note of UConn's leadership under David Benedict, who has clearly built a team of high-performing, passionate individuals who are invested in excellence across disciplines. This aligns with Candle's own philosophy — that successful programs require more than just talent, but a shared commitment to growth and improvement.

A Friendship With Geno Auriemma: Learning from a Legend

One of the most intriguing aspects of Candle's arrival in Storrs has been his quick bond with Geno Auriemma. As one of college basketball's most iconic figures, Auriemma has taken a keen interest in Candle's coaching journey and has offered valuable insights.

"He's been a great asset," Candle said. "He's been a great person to look to for advice and really he's been a great listener when I have questions or issues that may come up."

This relationship is more than just a personal connection — it represents the broader culture of mentorship and knowledge-sharing that's become a hallmark of UConn's athletic department. With coaches like Dan Hurley, Mike Cavanaugh, and others also leading successful programs, Candle is now positioned to learn from and contribute to an elite network of leaders.

A First Pitch at Fenway: A Fan's Dream Come True

Candle has always been a Red Sox fan — and his first official pitch at Fenway Park before a Red Sox game was not only symbolic, but deeply personal. As someone who's watched countless games from the stands, Candle described the moment as surreal.

"Walking out there was a surreal feeling," he said. "The coolest moment is watching my five-year-old sign the wall inside of Fenway Park... he's signing the wall next to a billion signatures."

The experience highlighted Candle's deep connection to his new state — and his family — while reminding him how far he's come since his early days as a coach in Ohio.

Recruiting with Heart: The Power of Relationships

As Candle prepares for his first recruiting cycle at UConn, he's already made it clear that he values relationships above all else. In a day when recruiting often feels transactional, Candle's approach is refreshingly grounded in trust and long-term development.

"I think I'm still naive enough to believe that relationships matter," he said. "And maybe in today's day and age, naive turns to dumb. But I just came from Toledo where we've had 13 guys drafted in my time as the head coach..."

This philosophy sets Candle apart in an era of shifting loyalties and high-profile transfers. His strategy is rooted in creating an environment where players feel supported, both on and off the field — a concept that's proven successful at UConn.

Local Flavor: Pizza, People, and Community

Candle's transition to Connecticut has been smooth, with his family settling into a great neighborhood. While he hasn't chosen a favorite pizza place (he humorously declines to commit), he's quick to praise the local food scene — especially the pizza that locals rave about.

"We've settled into a great neighborhood," he said. "The food here is incredible. Everybody raves about the pizza, which is as good as advertised."

It's a simple pleasure — but one that speaks to Candle's grounded approach to life and leadership. His ability to appreciate the local culture while staying focused on his mission at UConn is part of what makes him an ideal fit for this program.

The Road Ahead: A Vision for UConn Football

While Candle's journey from Toledo to Storrs has been brief, it's already clear that he's not just a coach — he's a builder. With his focus on culture, community, and player development, he's laying the groundwork for a program that could rise even higher.

His first pitch at Fenway Park was more than a symbolic moment — it was a sign of things to come. As Candle continues to adapt, recruit, and grow UConn football, we're witnessing the start of what could be a transformative chapter in the program's history.

• 2026: Candle takes over as head coach at UConn
• 2027: First full recruiting cycle under new leadership
• Future: Potential for sustained success in the Big East and beyond