West, 56, replaces Eric Schumann on the UAB staff. Schumann had served as the defensive coordinator the past four seasons.
In addition to his coordinator duties, West will also coach the Blazers' linebackers. Tyson Summers, who has served as linebackers coach the past four seasons, will now coach the UAB safeties.
West brings a wealth of experience to the UAB staff. Most recently, he served as the head coach at the University of Memphis (2001-09), where he guided the Tigers to five bowl appearances in nine seasons.
"I've known Tommy since the mid-80s and I've always thought he did a great job," Callaway said. "I was really impressed with the job he did with Memphis' defense when he was their coordinator, and the job he did as a head coach both there and when he was at Clemson.
"I know he is a good person and outstanding coach who fits into what we are doing both in philosophy and in toughness."
Prior to becoming the Tigers' head coach, West spent the 2000 season as Memphis' defensive coordinator. The Tigers finished the season ranked No. 1 in the nation in rushing defense (72.7 yards allowed per game) and were fifth in total defense (275.3 yards yielded per contest).
West also spent five seasons (1993-98) as the head coach at Clemson. He coached the Tigers to a win in the Peach Bowl a month after being hired and was a part of four bowl teams during his time at Clemson.
West's first head coaching job came at UT-Chattanooga. He guided the Mocs' program for one season before accepting the head coaching position at Clemson.
West began his coaching career in 1979 when he served as an assistant on the staff at Ole Miss. He then spent two seasons at Appalachian State, elevated to offensive coordinator in 1981.
From 1982-89, West served as an assistant coach at Clemson and was responsible for the outside linebackers. He was part of a coaching staff that led the Tigers to a 69-20-4 record and six Associated Press Top 20 rankings between 1982-89. During that time, Clemson played in five bowl games, winning four, and claimed four ACC Championships.
West left Clemson for his alma mater Tennessee in 1990 and spent one season as the Volunteers' running backs coach. West then traveled to the University of South Carolina, where he was the defensive coordinator in 1991 and 1992. He left the Gamecocks' staff to become the head coach at UT-Chattanooga.
http://accesswdun.com/article/2011/3/237012