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Marshall Football: A Story of Survival and Revival

Alvin Bell

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Published in A Coach In Progress: Marshall Football?A Story Of Survival And Revival

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On November 14, 1970, the world was shocked by the tragic news of a plane crash that claimed the lives of 75 people, including the entire Marshall University football team, coaching staff, and boosters. It was a devastating blow to the small town of Huntington, West Virginia, and the entire Marshall community.

In the aftermath of the tragedy, the future of Marshall Football hung in the balance. But thanks to the unwavering determination of the university president, Donald Dedmon, and the support of the community, the decision was made to rebuild the program from scratch.

A Coach in Progress: Marshall Football?A Story of Survival and Revival

by Red Dawson

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4523 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	194 pages
Screen Reader	:	Supported

The task of leading the new team fell to a young coach named Bobby Pruett. Pruett was a former Marshall player who had been an assistant coach at the time of the crash. He was determined to honor the legacy of the lost team and build a program that would make the entire Marshall community proud.

Pruett faced a daunting task. He had to recruit a new team of players, many of whom had never played college football before. He also had to rebuild the team's infrastructure, including the stadium and practice facilities. But Pruett was undeterred. He worked tirelessly to create a culture of hard work and dedication, and he instilled in his players a belief that they could overcome any obstacle.

In 1971, the new Marshall team took to the field for the first time. They were a young and inexperienced team, but they played with heart and determination. They finished the season with a 2-8 record, but their spirit was unbreakable.

Over the next few years, the Marshall team continued to improve. In 1975, they won their first conference championship since the plane crash. And in 1984, they made their first appearance in the NCAA Division I-AA playoffs.

The Marshall Football team has come a long way since the tragedy of 1970. They are now a perennial contender in the Division I-AA ranks, and they have a proud tradition of success. But more importantly, they are a symbol of hope and resilience. They are a reminder that even in the face of adversity, it is possible to overcome and achieve.

The story of Marshall Football is a truly inspiring one. It is a story of survival, revival, and the unbreakable spirit of the human heart. It is a story that will continue to be told for generations to come.

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Marshall Football: A Story of Survival and Revival is available now at all major bookstores. Free Download your copy today and be inspired by the incredible journey of the Thundering Herd.

A Coach in Progress: Marshall Football?A Story of Survival and Revival

by Red Dawson

4.6 out of 5