Deaths on April 13

Bruce Snyder, American football player and coach (b. 1940)

Bruce Fletcher Snyder, a name deeply embedded in the annals of American college football, led a distinguished career both as a player and, more prominently, as a coach. Born on March 14, 1940, Snyder dedicated decades to the sport, leaving an indelible mark on several university programs before his passing on April 13, 2009.

His journey in football began on the field itself. During the early 1960s, Snyder showcased his athletic prowess as a fullback for the University of Oregon Ducks. This foundational experience as a player at the collegiate level would eventually pave the way for his true calling: coaching.

A Coaching Odyssey: From Logan to Berkeley to Tempe

Snyder's transition from player to coach saw him rise through the ranks, eventually taking the helm as a head coach at three distinct universities, each stint contributing to a formidable overall record. His first head coaching role was at Utah State University, where he guided the Aggies from 1976 to 1982. After a period as an assistant, he returned to lead the University of California, Berkeley Golden Bears from 1987 to 1991. Finally, he took on what would become perhaps his most defining role, leading the Arizona State University Sun Devils from 1992 to 2000. Across these three programs, Snyder compiled a respectable career record of 125 wins, 106 losses, and 6 ties, boasting a winning percentage of .540.

Beyond his collegiate head coaching duties, Snyder also lent his expertise as an assistant coach. Notably, he served under his long-time friend John Robinson for the Los Angeles Rams in the National Football League (NFL) from 1983 to 1986. Following his impactful tenure at Arizona State, he once again joined Robinson's staff for a season in 2003, assisting at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV).

The Sun Devil Years: A Period of Prominence

It was at Arizona State University that Bruce Snyder truly cemented his legacy. His nine-year tenure (1992-2000) saw the Sun Devils achieve significant success, with his 58 victories ranking him second in school history for coaching wins. This achievement places him just behind the legendary Frank Kush, who led ASU from 1958 to 1979 and accumulated 173 wins. Snyder's era brought renewed excitement to Tempe, as he guided ASU to four prestigious bowl games, highlighted by a victory in the 1997 Sun Bowl, a testament to his ability to elevate programs to national relevance.

Snyder was also a remarkable talent developer, consistently preparing his players for the next level. Under his guidance, over 40 Arizona State players were selected in the highly competitive National Football League Draft, including an impressive seven first-round picks, signaling the caliber of talent he recruited and honed. Additionally, more than 40 other Sun Devil athletes went on to sign free agent contracts in the NFL, underscoring his profound impact on the professional careers of his players.

A Season for the Ages: The 1996 Sun Devils

Among his many accomplishments, the 1996 season stands out as the pinnacle of Bruce Snyder's coaching career, particularly at Arizona State. This extraordinary year earned him numerous accolades, including his second Pac-10 Coach of the Year award (his first came in 1990 with Cal). He was also deservedly inducted into the Arizona State Hall of Fame, recognizing his profound contributions to the university's athletic history.

With the dynamic Jake Plummer orchestrating the offense at quarterback, Snyder led the 1996 Sun Devils to an astonishing 11–1 record. The season began with a thunderous statement in just their second game, as Arizona State pulled off a monumental upset, stunning the top-ranked and two-time defending national champion Nebraska Cornhuskers. This victory sent shockwaves through the college football world and set the stage for an unforgettable run.

The Sun Devils continued their impressive trajectory, achieving the third undefeated regular season in the program's history. This remarkable performance propelled them to the 1997 Rose Bowl, often dubbed "The Granddaddy of Them All." In a thrilling contest, ASU came agonizingly close to victory, falling to Ohio State by a mere 19 seconds. Had they emerged triumphant, the Sun Devils would have almost certainly secured at least a share of the national championship, as they would have stood as the only undefeated major-conference team in the nation – a truly historic "what if" moment in college football lore. For his exceptional leadership and the team's extraordinary achievements that year, Snyder received a multitude of prestigious national coaching awards, including the Paul "Bear" Bryant Award and the Walter Camp Coach of the Year Award, solidifying his status as one of the nation's elite coaches.

Farewell to a Football Legend

Bruce Snyder’s remarkable journey in football came to a sorrowful end following a diagnosis of Stage IV melanoma in June 2008. Less than a year later, on April 13, 2009, he passed away peacefully at his home in Phoenix, Arizona, at the age of 69. He is survived by his beloved wife, Linda, and their three daughters, leaving behind a profound legacy that continues to inspire players and coaches alike within the sport he so deeply loved.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bruce Snyder

What was Bruce Snyder's overall head coaching record?

Bruce Snyder compiled a career head coaching record of 125 wins, 106 losses, and 6 ties (.540 winning percentage) across his tenures at Utah State, California, and Arizona State.

Which teams did Bruce Snyder coach as a head coach?

He served as head coach for Utah State University (1976–1982), the University of California, Berkeley (1987–1991), and Arizona State University (1992–2000).

What was Bruce Snyder's most notable achievement?

His most celebrated season was arguably 1996 with Arizona State, where he led the Sun Devils to an 11–1 record, an undefeated regular season, a monumental upset over top-ranked Nebraska, and an appearance in the 1997 Rose Bowl, coming within seconds of a national championship.

Did Bruce Snyder win any national coaching awards?

Yes, for his outstanding efforts during the 1996 season, he received prestigious national awards, including the Paul "Bear" Bryant Award and the Walter Camp Coach of the Year Award. He was also a two-time Pac-10 Coach of the Year.

How did Bruce Snyder contribute to player development?

During his time at Arizona State, over 40 players were selected in the NFL Draft (including seven first-round picks), and more than 40 others signed NFL free agent contracts, demonstrating his significant impact on their professional careers.

When did Bruce Snyder pass away?

Bruce Snyder passed away on April 13, 2009, at his home in Phoenix, Arizona, after a battle with Stage IV melanoma.