After nearly 40 years with the Cajuns, the football program's go-to guy embraces an uncertain future

After nearly 40 years with UL’s Ragin’ Cajuns, Troy Wingerter has stepped away from the football program, facing an uncertain future with no practice schedule or recruiting calendar. The New Orleans native, 57, said he learned on May 11 that he would not return for the 2026 season after a state audit found violations tied to falsified recruiting-expense documentation connected to a LaCarte state credit card. Wingerter said no one personally benefited and attributed shortcomings to training, communication and oversight, while accepting responsibility as a senior administrator. In his final weeks, he focused on preparing his successor, former UL defensive back Pat Mensah, to avoid disruption for the team. Wingerter previously served in multiple roles beginning in 1987, returning in 1996 as a runner, cameraman and assistant coach.