Tommy Mont, American football player and coach (b. 1922)
Thomas Allison Mont (June 20, 1922 – January 1, 2012) was a prominent figure in American collegiate and professional sports, known for his diverse and impactful career as an educator, university administrator, esteemed college football coach, and a National Football League (NFL) player. Mont's dedication to athletics and education spanned several decades, leaving a significant legacy across various institutions.
NFL Playing Career: Quarterback for the Washington Redskins
Mont's professional football journey began in the NFL, where he played as a quarterback for the Washington Redskins. He was notably drafted by the Redskins in the 16th round (159th overall) of the 1944 NFL Draft. Following military service during World War II, Mont joined the team, playing for three seasons from 1946 to 1948. During this period, he served as a backup to the legendary Sammy Baugh, a Hall of Fame quarterback widely regarded as one of the greatest to ever play the position. This role not only showcased Mont's exceptional talent and understanding of the game but also positioned him alongside one of football's most iconic figures, providing invaluable experience that would later inform his coaching philosophy.
A Distinguished Career in Collegiate Sports Leadership
Transitioning from the professional playing field, Thomas Mont dedicated the remainder of his extensive career to collegiate athletics, making significant contributions as both a head football coach and an athletic administrator.
Head Coaching Tenures
Mont's coaching career began with a challenging but foundational period at the University of Maryland, where he served as head football coach for three seasons (1956-1958). During his time with the Terrapins, he strived to build a competitive program, laying groundwork for future success.
His longest and most impactful coaching tenure was at DePauw University, where he served as the head football coach for eighteen consecutive years, from 1959 to 1976. Mont's leadership at DePauw was transformative; he amassed an impressive record of 81-78-4 during his tenure, making him the winningest football coach in the university's history. His coaching philosophy emphasized not only athletic achievement but also the holistic development of student-athletes, fostering strong academic performance and character alongside on-field success.
Leadership as Athletic Director
In addition to his coaching responsibilities at DePauw, Mont took on the crucial role of athletic director, a position he held concurrently for fifteen years from 1962 to 1976. As an athletic administrator, he oversaw the strategic direction and operational management of the university's entire intercollegiate athletic program. This involved everything from facility development and budget management to compliance with athletic regulations and the recruitment of coaching staff. His dual role as both coach and athletic director underscored his deep commitment to collegiate sports and his comprehensive understanding of its multifaceted demands, contributing significantly to DePauw's athletic infrastructure and traditions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Thomas Allison Mont
- What was Thomas Allison Mont's primary NFL team?
- Thomas Allison Mont played his entire NFL career as a quarterback for the Washington Redskins.
- Who was Sammy Baugh, and what was his relationship with Thomas Mont?
- Sammy Baugh was a legendary Hall of Fame quarterback for the Washington Redskins. Thomas Mont played as his backup for three seasons, learning from one of the greatest players in NFL history.
- How long did Thomas Mont coach at DePauw University?
- Thomas Mont served as the head football coach at DePauw University for eighteen years, from 1959 to 1976, becoming the winningest coach in the program's history.
- What other administrative role did Thomas Mont hold at DePauw University?
- In addition to coaching, Thomas Mont also served as DePauw University's athletic director for fifteen years, from 1962 to 1976, overseeing the comprehensive athletic department.