Don Nehlen, American football player and coach

Donald Nehlen: A Legacy in College Football

Donald Eugene Nehlen, born on January 1, 1936, is an esteemed former American football player and a revered coach whose career significantly impacted college football. Known for his disciplined approach and successful tenures, Nehlen established himself as a prominent figure, particularly during his impactful leadership at West Virginia University.

Early Life and Athletic Prowess

Nehlen’s journey in sports began in his hometown of Canton, Ohio, a region deeply steeped in football history. As a multi-sport athlete at Lincoln High School, he showcased exceptional talent across football, basketball, and baseball, highlighting his natural athletic versatility and competitive spirit.

Playing Career at Bowling Green

Nehlen continued his football career as a quarterback at Bowling Green State University from 1955 to 1957. A standout player, he notably guided the Falcons to a Mid-American Conference (MAC) championship in 1956, marking an early testament to his leadership and strategic understanding of the game.

From High School Fields to Collegiate Sidelines: Coaching Ascendancy

Nehlen’s coaching odyssey commenced in 1958 within the Ohio high school ranks, starting at Mansfield Senior High School. He then took the helm as head coach at Canton South High School and the historically prominent Canton McKinley High School, where he honed his coaching philosophy and developed young talent. His success at the high school level paved the way for his transition to collegiate coaching as an assistant.

• University of Cincinnati: Gained initial collegiate experience, further broadening his coaching perspective.
• Bowling Green State University: Returned to his alma mater as an assistant coach, contributing to the program he once played for.
• University of Michigan: A pivotal period in his career, Nehlen served as the offensive coordinator under legendary coach Bo Schembechler from 1977 to 1979. This invaluable experience under one of college football’s most influential figures provided strategic insights that profoundly shaped his future head coaching approach.

Head Coaching Reigns: Building Programs and Legacies

Nehlen’s distinguished career as a head coach is primarily defined by his successful stints at Bowling Green State University and West Virginia University, where he left an indelible mark on both programs.

Bowling Green State University (1968–1976)

As head coach at his alma mater, Nehlen led the Bowling Green Falcons for nine seasons. He successfully built a competitive program, demonstrating his ability to develop players and implement effective game strategies, setting the stage for his future success at a larger institution.

West Virginia University (1980–2000): A Storied Era

Nehlen’s 21-year tenure as the head football coach at West Virginia University is widely regarded as one of the most significant periods in the program’s history. From 1980 to 2000, he transformed the Mountaineers into a nationally recognized force, consistently competing for conference titles and earning numerous bowl appearances.

• Program Transformation: Nehlen is widely credited with elevating WVU football to unprecedented heights, instilling a winning culture and a resilient identity that resonated deeply with the state’s passionate fanbase.
• Record-Breaking Success: He led the Mountaineers to two undefeated regular seasons (1988 and 1993), culminating in significant national championship game appearances, though the team fell short of the ultimate title on both occasions. His 149 wins at WVU remain a program record, underscoring his lasting impact.
• Longevity and Consistency: Nehlen remains the longest-serving head football coach in WVU history, a testament to his consistent performance and the stability he brought to the program for over two decades.

Upon his retirement from coaching college football in 2001, Nehlen concluded his remarkable career with an impressive overall record of 202 wins, 128 losses, and 8 ties. This remarkable achievement positioned him as the 17th winningest coach in college football history at the time of his retirement, solidifying his status among an elite group of the sport's most successful leaders.

Post-Coaching Contributions and Enduring Recognition

Even after stepping away from the sidelines, Donald Nehlen has continued to contribute to his community and receive accolades for his enduring impact.

• College Football Hall of Fame: In recognition of his outstanding coaching achievements and contributions to the sport, Nehlen was deservedly inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2005, cementing his place among football’s immortals and legends.
• American Football Coaches Association (AFCA) President: His leadership extended beyond the field, as evidenced by his service as a president of the American Football Coaches Association, a prestigious role that highlights the immense respect and influence he commanded among his peers in the coaching community.
• Spokesman for the Coal Industry: Leveraging his significant public recognition and deep roots in West Virginia, Nehlen has served as a prominent spokesman for the coal industry, advocating for an economic sector vital to the state’s prosperity and identity.
• Distinguished West Virginian Award: In 2002, his comprehensive contributions to the state were further recognized with the prestigious Distinguished West Virginian Award from the West Virginia Broadcasters Association, honoring his impact and positive influence far beyond the realm of athletics.
• Published Author: In 2006, Nehlen shared his wealth of experience and insights in his autobiographical work, "Don Nehlen's Tales from the West Virginia Sideline." This insightful book offers a personal and engaging account of his memorable 21-year tenure as the head football coach at West Virginia, providing fans and historians with a unique, behind-the-scenes look at a pivotal era for Mountaineer football.

Frequently Asked Questions about Donald Nehlen

What is Donald Nehlen best known for?

Donald Nehlen is primarily known for his highly successful 21-year tenure as the head football coach at West Virginia University (1980-2000), where he became the winningest coach in program history and led the Mountaineers to two undefeated regular seasons.

What was Don Nehlen's career coaching record?

Upon his retirement in 2001, Don Nehlen's career college football coaching record stood at an impressive 202 wins, 128 losses, and 8 ties, placing him among the top winningest coaches in college football history at that time.

When was Don Nehlen inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame?

Donald Nehlen was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2005, a significant recognition of his lasting impact and achievements in the sport.

Did Don Nehlen play college football?

Yes, Don Nehlen played college football as a quarterback for Bowling Green State University from 1955 to 1957, notably leading the team to a Mid-American Conference championship in 1956.

What role did Don Nehlen play after retiring from coaching?

After retiring from coaching, Don Nehlen became a prominent spokesman for the coal industry, particularly in West Virginia, and authored an autobiography titled "Don Nehlen's Tales from the West Virginia Sideline," offering insights into his coaching career.