Timmy Chang Wiki, Bio, Networth, GF, Wife, Family & More

Brief Introduction of Timmy Chang

Timothy “Timmy” Kealii’okaaina Awa Chang is a prominent figure in American football, widely recognized as a former record-setting quarterback for the University of Hawaiʻi Rainbow Warriors and currently serving as their head coach. Born in Waipahu, Hawaii, Chang’s career has been deeply intertwined with the state, from his celebrated collegiate playing days to his return as the leader of the university’s football program. As a player, he shattered numerous NCAA passing records, leaving an indelible mark on college football history before embarking on a professional career in the NFL, NFL Europe, and the CFL. Today, Timmy Chang biography is defined by his dedication to the sport, his alma mater, and his commitment to coaching the next generation of athletes, embodying the spirit of Hawaiian football.

Timmy Chang Overview

Early Life and Education of Timmy Chang

Timothy Kealii’okaaina Awa Chang was born on October 9, 1981, in Waipahu, Hawaii, where he also grew up. His early life was immersed in sports, though he did not begin playing organized football until his early teens. Prior to that, his athletic focus was primarily on basketball and baseball. He often served as a ball boy for his father, Levi Chang, who was a school principal and basketball coach, and also officiated football games for the Interscholastic League of Honolulu.

Chang attended St. Louis School in Honolulu, a renowned institution for athletic and academic excellence. During his time there, he was not only an honors student but also a three-year letterman in both football and basketball. His exceptional talent on the gridiron quickly garnered national attention, leading to his selection as a prep All-American by eight major organizations and publications. As a quarterback for the St. Louis School football team, Timmy Chang achieved remarkable statistics, completing 464 passes for 8,001 yards and throwing 113 touchdowns over his three-year high school career. He graduated from Saint Louis High School in 2000.

Despite receiving offers from numerous premier programs on the mainland, including schools like California, USC, Washington, and Utah, Chang made the pivotal decision to stay home and commit to the University of Hawaiʻi Rainbow Warriors. He was drawn by the opportunity to play in June Jones’ wide-open offense, which appealed to his imagination as a young quarterback. This commitment to his home state and alma mater would define a significant portion of his career. He later returned to the University of Hawaiʻi to complete his bachelor’s degree in sports and fitness in 2004, after his professional playing career.

Timmy Chang’s Career

Playing Career

Timmy Chang’s playing career at the University of Hawaiʻi (2000-2004) was nothing short of legendary, establishing him as one of college football’s most prolific passers. He started 50 of 53 career games, completing 1,388 of 2,436 passes for an astounding 17,072 yards and 117 touchdowns. These numbers initially broke NCAA Division I-A all-time records for completions, passing yards, and total plays. While his passing yardage record was later eclipsed by Case Keenum in 2011 and Dillon Gabriel in 2024, Chang still ranks third all-time in career passing yards. He also set NCAA records for total plays (2,587) and passes attempted (2,436), and unfortunately, holds the record for most career interceptions (80). Chang’s total offense yards of 16,910 also broke an NCAA record and he recorded 36 career games with over 300 passing yards, and 11 games with over 400 yards.

Following his stellar collegiate career, Chang went undrafted in the 2005 NFL Draft. He signed with the Arizona Cardinals but was cut during training camp. He also had a preseason stint with the Detroit Lions in 2005, but did not make the final roster. In 2006, the Philadelphia Eagles signed him and allocated him to NFL Europe, where he played for the Rhein Fire. With the Rhein Fire, he completed 50 of 89 passes for 656 yards, 4 touchdowns, and 3 interceptions. He was again cut by the Eagles before the regular NFL season.

Chang then transitioned to the Canadian Football League (CFL), playing for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats from 2007 to 2008 and briefly for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers in 2008. In the CFL, he threw for 1,126 yards, with 5 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. He officially retired from professional football in 2009.

Coaching Career

After retiring from playing, Chang returned to the University of Hawaiʻi to complete his bachelor’s degree. His coaching journey began in 2012 when his former collegiate head coach, June Jones, hired him as a graduate assistant at Southern Methodist University (SMU). During his two seasons at SMU (2012-2013), he assisted with all aspects of the Mustangs’ offense, focusing primarily on quarterbacks, and was part of a team that earned an invitation to the Hawaiʻi Bowl.

In February 2014, Chang was appointed as the offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach for Jackson State. In his first season, the team averaged 25.8 points per game and led the Southwestern Athletic Conference in multiple offensive categories. He then served as the offensive coordinator at Emory & Henry College in 2016, where the offense averaged 33.0 points and 463.5 yards per game.

From 2017 to 2021, Chang joined the University of Nevada coaching staff under head coach Jay Norvell. He initially coached inside wide receivers in 2017, then moved to tight ends coach from 2018 to 2020, and returned to coach wide receivers in 2021. While at Nevada, he was instrumental in developing key pass-catchers and was part of four bowl teams. In 2021, he coached three pass catchers who were named to the Fred Biletnikoff Award Watch List.

When Norvell moved to Colorado State following the 2021 season, Chang initially followed him as the wide receivers coach. However, his tenure there was brief, as he accepted the head coaching position at his alma mater.

On January 22, 2022, Timmy Chang was named the 25th head coach in the history of the University of Hawaiʻi Rainbow Warriors football program, a “dream job” for the hometown hero. He signed a four-year deal, which was later extended for another year, securing his position through at least the 2026 season. As of August 2025, his head coaching record at Hawaii is 14-25.

Timmy Chang Personal Life & Family

Timmy Chang’s personal life is rooted in his Hawaiian heritage and a strong family foundation. He is married to Sherry Chang, who was born and raised in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada. They met in Canada when Chang was playing for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, with Sherry working at a local restaurant where the team had dinner. Their connection was immediate, and Chang returned the next night to ask her out, starting a relationship that has spanned 17 years, with nine years of marriage.

Together, Timmy and Sherry Chang have five children: Audri-Lee, Lion, London, Levi, and Adriana. Timmy Chang also has a son from a previous relationship, making him a father of six. The name Levi holds special significance for the family, as their son Levi, born in October 2017, was named in honor of Timmy’s late father, Levi Chang. Timmy’s parents are Levi and Mary Ann Chang. His father, who passed away in 2015, remained a significant influence throughout Timmy’s life and career, even having football conversations with his son while hospitalized before his unexpected death.

Sherry Chang is actively involved in supporting the Hawaii football program, having co-created the “Sistahhood Social,” an event designed to educate women about the team and football while raising funds. She has openly discussed the collective impact of Timmy’s coaching career on their entire family, emphasizing that the scrutiny and pressure affect all of them. The family’s life heavily revolves around football, blending the joys of raising their children with the excitement of game day at the University of Hawaiʻi.

Timmy Chang returned to Hawaii after his professional playing career to complete his bachelor’s degree, showcasing his commitment to education. His dedication to his family and community is evident in his desire to make the state proud in his role as head coach.

Awards and Achievements of Timmy Chang

Timmy Chang’s career, both as a player and a coach, has been marked by numerous accolades and significant achievements.

As a Player:

• NCAA Records: At one point, Chang held the NCAA Division I-A all-time records for most career passing yards (17,072), total offense yards (16,910), completions (1,388), and total plays (2,587). As of 2024, he remains third in career passing yards and second in total offensive yards. He also still holds the NCAA FBS records for total plays (2,587) and passes attempted (2,436).
• WAC Freshman of the Year: Awarded in 2000.
• All-WAC Selections: First-team All-WAC in 2004, second-team All-WAC in 2002, and honorable mention in 2000 and 2003. He was a four-time All-Western Athletic Conference selection.
• Hawaii Bowl MVP: Named Most Valuable Player in 2003 and Co-MVP in 2004.
• Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award Finalist: Recognized as a finalist for the nation’s top senior quarterback award in 2004.
• High School Achievements: Selected as a prep All-American by eight major organizations and publications, and named C. David Baker National Prep Football Player of the Year.

As a Coach:

• Impact at Jackson State: As Offensive Coordinator, he led the team to rank among national leaders in passing yards, completions, completion percentage, and total offense in the Southwestern Athletic Conference.
• Offensive Success at Emory & Henry: His offense averaged 33.0 points and 463.5 yards per game during his tenure as offensive coordinator.
• Player Development at Nevada: Helped coach three pass catchers who were named to the Fred Biletnikoff Award Watch List in 2021, including two-time All-Mountain West selections Romeo Doubs and Cole Turner. Was pivotal in Cole Turner’s breakout 2020 season in his transition to tight end.
• Bill Walsh Diversity Coaching Fellowship: Participated in the NFL’s program with the Buffalo Bills in 2016.
• Head Coach of Alma Mater: Named the 25th head coach of the University of Hawaiʻi football program, a significant honor for a former player.

Timmy Chang Net Worth and Income

As of 2024, Timmy Chang’s estimated net worth is over $3 million. This figure takes into account his earnings from his playing career in the NFL, NFL Europe, and CFL, as well as his extensive coaching career.

His income primarily stems from his coaching contracts. For the 2024 college football season, Timmy Chang’s salary was $700,008. He initially signed a four-year contract with Hawaii in 2022, which paid him $500,000 in the first year, with increases of approximately $100,000 in the subsequent two years, and an additional $50,000 in the final year. His total base salary over the initial four-year deal was set to be $2,550,030 before bonuses. He received a one-year extension in December 2023, keeping him with the program through at least the 2026 season.

Prior to his head coaching role, Chang earned a significant amount as a receivers coach at Nevada, totaling $550,013 over four years (2017-2020). His coaching salary has included retention payments, with amounts like $68,334 in 2024 if he remained head coach on specific dates. While his current salary as the head coach of Hawaii makes him the lowest-paid head coach in the Mountain West Conference, his overall financial standing reflects a successful career in football.

Legacy and Influence

Timmy Chang’s legacy and influence on Hawaiian football are profound, stemming from both his record-breaking playing career and his current role as head coach of his alma mater. As a player, he helped shape the identity of Hawaii football with his “run-and-shoot” offensive style, characterized by a prolific passing game. His decision to stay and play for the University of Hawaiʻi, despite national offers, cemented his status as a local hero and a symbol of pride for the state.

As a coach, Chang is dedicated to instilling mental toughness and a winning mindset in his players, while also prioritizing their long-term success both on and off the field. He carries the teachings and influence of his late father, Levi Chang, into his coaching philosophy, emphasizing honesty and direct communication. He has consistently aimed to create a cohesive team environment, ensuring every individual feels a part of the “BRADDAHHOOD.” His coaching style is described as authentic and competitive, and he is known for understanding all facets of the game.

Chang’s return as head coach has been seen as an effort to bring “magic back to Mānoa” and reconnect the program with its local roots and identity. He actively emphasizes recruiting local talent and maintaining the program’s unique offensive brand of “throwing the ball on this rock.” His wife, Sherry Chang, also contributes to his legacy by fostering community engagement through initiatives like the “Sistahhood Social,” which aims to connect women with the team and raise funds. Timmy Chang’s enduring impact is his commitment to his home, his team, and the future of football in Hawaii.

Interesting Facts about Timmy Chang

• Timmy Chang did not begin playing organized football until he was in his early teens; prior to that, his main athletic pursuits were basketball and baseball.
• Despite being one of the most prolific passers in college football history, Timmy Chang still holds the NCAA Football Bowl Subdivision all-time records for total plays (2,587) and passes attempted (2,436).
• He also holds the NCAA record for most career interceptions, with 80.
• One of his sons, Levi, is named after his late father, Levi Chang, who was a significant influence in Timmy’s life.
• Chang made a cameo appearance in the video game “NCAA Football 06.”
• His nickname is “Timmy,” but his full name is Timothy Kealii’okaaina Awa Chang.
• He met his wife, Sherry, in Canada while playing for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats in the CFL.

Controversies

In February 2010, Timmy Chang pleaded guilty to two misdemeanors. He was fined $155, agreed to undergo anger management assessment, and was placed on six months’ probation. Police reports indicated that he had seen a woman filming a fight in Honolulu’s Pearlridge neighborhood, demanded she stop, and after a struggle, took her camera and threw it onto the roof of a nearby building.

Social Media Presence

While Timmy Chang may not maintain a prominent individual social media presence with public follower counts, his role as the head coach of the University of Hawaiʻi Rainbow Warriors inherently places him at the center of the team’s official online platforms. The University of Hawaiʻi at Manoa Athletics Department actively maintains a presence across various social media channels, including Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram, where updates about the football team and its head coach are frequently shared.

Content featuring Timmy Chang, such as postgame press conferences and discussions about fall camp expectations, is regularly uploaded to platforms like YouTube and TikTok, contributing to his online visibility. For instance, “The Timmy Chang Show,” featuring coach Chang, is a recurring program accessible through these platforms, allowing fans to engage with insights on the team’s performance and upcoming games. This institutional and program-specific social media activity keeps fans informed about Timmy Chang’s coaching endeavors and the Hawaii football team’s journey, aligning with the “Timmy Chang wiki” and “Timmy Chang biography” search interests by providing current information.

Final Words about Timmy Chang

Timmy Chang’s journey from a record-breaking quarterback to the head coach of his beloved alma mater, the University of Hawaiʻi Rainbow Warriors, exemplifies a deep connection to his home state and the sport of football. His career is a testament to both athletic prowess and a dedicated transition into leadership. As of August 2025, he is in his fourth season as head coach, continuing to shape the program with his vision of “BRADDAHHOOD” and a commitment to the distinctive offensive style that defines Hawaii football.

Looking ahead, Timmy Chang’s future plans are firmly centered on elevating the Hawaii Rainbow Warriors, aiming to secure Mountain West Conference Championships and instill pride in the community. His legacy is still actively being written, not just through wins and losses, but through his mentorship, his family’s involvement, and his unwavering dedication to the next generation of Hawaiian athletes. The “Timmy Chang net worth” of influence extends far beyond financial figures, encompassing the cultural and athletic fabric of Hawaii football, positioning him as a pivotal figure in the sport’s ongoing narrative in the islands.