Buckels got his start in collegiate coaching at his alma mater, LSU, where he served as graduate assistant under Nick Saban and Gerry DiNardo. He worked with the defense and special teams and earned his master’s degree in 2001. Buckels played at LSU under then Tiger assistant head coach Bennett. He lettered four years at LSU (1989-92) serving as team captain and earning special teams MVP honors in 1991. He tallied six career interceptions and returned one for a touchdown.
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After LSU, Buckels had stints in professional football with CFL’s Baltimore Colts and the semi-pro Louisiana Bayou Thunder.
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Following his professional career, Buckels returned home to Amite, La, to coach baseball and teach at Amite High School.
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From 1996-99, Buckels held numerous positions at Hammond (la.) High School helping the Tornados to the Class 4A semifinals in 1996-1997 as defensive backs coach. He also served as defensive coordinator for one season prior to heading to LSU.
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While at HHS, Buckels coached Division I signees Fred Booker (LSU), Brock Williams (Notre Dame), Donald Dykes (Notre Dame) and Anwar Ruffin (Southern Miss). Williams was a third-round draft pick of the New England Patriots and the Philadelphia Eagles signed Booker as a free agent.
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A two-time all-state selection at defensive back at Amite High, Buckels recorded 215 tackles and seven interceptions and returned three punts and three interceptions for touchdowns his junior and senior years.
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Buckels is married to the former Kyra Barnes and they are the parents of three sons, Justin, Carsyn, and Carlon.
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