Twistity Sports Exclusive: THE MASTER BUILDER

 
Howard Schnellenberger built programs and won titles. More than just a coach, he was an engineer of success.

He reconstituted the University of Miami’s football program and won a national title. He went on to the University of Louisville, brought excitement and bowl games and national ranking of 11th, and Louisville’s success continues.

Then Schnellenberger started a program at Florida Atlantic University, which had no stadium, no facilities, nada. Still, in 11 years with the Owls he put up a record of 58-74, skewed by a 1-11 final season, and got the Owls to two bowl games once they moved to the Division 1 level.

And did we mention he was offensive coordinator for the Miami Dolphins during their perfect 17-0 championship season in 1972?

Known to most as Schnelly, the 80-year-old is still a presence at FAU in Boca Raton, Florida, mostly doing meet-and-greets for the athletic department. Next month, though, he becomes a little more. His name will grace the playing surface at FAU Stadium. Yes, it will be Howard Schnellenberger Field at FAU Stadium (the school is still trying to sell naming rights to the building itself) after a vote by the FAU Board of Trustees and the donation of any anonymous benefactor.

The honors will be accorded in a ceremony prior to the Sept. 13 home opener against Tulsa. In a statement, Schnelly described this tribute as “the highlight of my coaching career.” Wonderful tribute. Outstanding career.

Congrats, coach. You earned it.
 
 
Post By: Larry Weisman, a longtime sportswriter for USA TODAY, blogs for Twistity.com. Follow him on Twitter @MrLarryWeisman