Franklin Gene Bissell, American football player and coach (b. 1926)

Franklin Gene Bissell (April 12, 1926 – January 28, 2016) was an esteemed American football figure, widely recognized for his significant contributions as both a dedicated player and, more prominently, as a highly successful coach. His remarkable career left an enduring legacy, most notably through his extensive tenure at Kansas Wesleyan University, where he became an iconic figure.

Bissell's coaching leadership at Kansas Wesleyan University, an institution within the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) that competes in the Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference (KCAC), spanned an impressive 26 years. He guided the Kansas Wesleyan Coyotes football program through two distinct and highly impactful periods: his initial term from 1952 to 1961, and then, after a brief hiatus, he returned to the helm from 1963 until his retirement in 1978. This combined service cemented his status as the longest-serving and winningest head football coach in the university's history.

During his prolific coaching career at Kansas Wesleyan, Gene Bissell compiled an overall record of 115 wins, 119 losses, and 7 ties (115–119–7). This record underscores a period of sustained competitiveness and numerous achievements for the Coyotes. Under Bissell's guidance, Kansas Wesleyan secured multiple Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference championships, a testament to his strategic prowess and his ability to consistently develop strong, disciplined teams. Beyond the statistics, Bissell was widely respected for his commitment to fostering well-rounded student-athletes, emphasizing character development alongside athletic excellence.

His profound impact on the Kansas Wesleyan University athletics program and the lives of countless student-athletes led to his rightful induction into the Kansas Wesleyan University Athletics Hall of Fame. Gene Bissell's legacy continues to resonate within the institution's football heritage, serving as a benchmark of dedication, leadership, and enduring success.

Frequently Asked Questions about Gene Bissell

• Who was Franklin Gene Bissell?

  Franklin Gene Bissell (1926–2016) was a notable American football player and a legendary coach, primarily recognized for his extensive and highly impactful tenure as the head football coach at Kansas Wesleyan University.

• How long did Gene Bissell coach at Kansas Wesleyan University?

  Gene Bissell served as the head football coach for a remarkable 26 years across two separate stints: initially from 1952 to 1961, and then returning from 1963 to 1978.

• What was Gene Bissell's overall coaching record?

  During his tenure at Kansas Wesleyan University, Gene Bissell compiled a comprehensive coaching record of 115 wins, 119 losses, and 7 ties (115–119–7).

• What were Gene Bissell's key achievements as a coach at KWU?

  Gene Bissell is celebrated as the winningest and longest-serving coach in Kansas Wesleyan University football history. He led the Coyotes to multiple Kansas Collegiate Athletic Conference (KCAC) championships and was instrumental in shaping numerous student-athletes. His significant contributions are permanently recognized through his induction into the KWU Athletics Hall of Fame.