“I struggle believing I have cancer because I feel great.” That’s how Auburn head coach Hugh Freeze described his mindset after receiving unexpected news about his health. Freeze, known for his resilience on and off the field, has always preached perseverance to his players. Whether it’s navigating a tough season or building a competitive roster, he’s never backed down from a challenge. Now, as messages of support and prayers pour in from the Auburn community, Freeze finds himself facing a battle unlike any before—one that tests not just his coaching philosophy, but his personal strength as well.
Auburn officials had released a statement regarding Freeze’s treatment and future. “Recently, Coach Freeze was diagnosed with an early form of prostate cancer. Thankfully, it was detected early and his doctors have advised that it is very treatable and curable. He will continue his normal coaching duties and responsibilities, and with forthcoming proper treatment, is expected to make a full recovery“.
Hugh Freeze has an illustrious career in coaching football and joined Auburn in November 2022. Though his initial 2 seasons have seen more downs than ups, as he finished 6-6 in the 2023 season and 5-7 in 2024. However, his exploits building into the 2025 season were looking quite optimistic for the team. Since he has roped in a 2025 class ranked 8th nationally and a 2026 class ranked 5th, and is making efforts to rope in more prospects. Freeze has since cleared the air regarding his battle with cancer in a recent statement.
Thank you to East Alabama Medical Center for stopping by with their thoughts & prayers. Blessed to have them apart of the Auburn family! pic.twitter.com/wTJWvtdowk
— Hugh Freeze (@CoachHughFreeze) March 24, 2025
Justin Hokanson of On3 and an Auburn insider provided the update, “‘I struggle believing I have cancer because I feel great.’ Freeze says he had his 30 minutes to an hour of ‘self-pity,’ but quickly turned his focus to practicing what he preaches to his players about perseverance, etc“.
Furthermore, Freeze also posted a picture thanking East Alabama Medical Center for their support, “Thank you to East Alabama Medical Center for stopping by with their thoughts & prayers. Blessed to have them a part of the Auburn family“. Freeze held a placard given by the Medical Center, which read, “Thinking of You, Coach Freeze! War Eagle!“.
The post Hugh Freeze Breaks Silence on Cancer Diagnosis After Prayers Flow In From Medical Center for Auburn HC appeared first on EssentiallySports.