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The days of decades-long careers may very well be over in modern college football. Between tv contracts, endorsement deals, and the nuclear arms races of facilities and amenities, it’s become a what have you done for me lately sort of business, even more so than before. Even though before was pretty bad.
Such is life in modern college football, and the Kent State Golden Flashes announced on Friday that assistant coach Dave McMichael would be retiring after a 42-year career. No matter who you are and no matter the conference, 42-years is a damn long time and a threshold you don’t get to unless you happen to be very good at what you do.
From the Kent State release...
After 42 seasons as a college football coach, Dave McMichael announced his retirement on Friday (June 30). Arriving at Kent State in 2011, McMichael served as special teams coordinator and tight ends coach.
“I would like to express my sincere gratitude to Paul Haynes, the coaches I’ve worked with and the wonderful players I’ve had the privilege of coaching,” McMichael said. “After careful thought, I made the difficult decision to accept an infrequently occurring University separation program. Retirement will enable me to spend more quality time with my family.”
McMichael’s coaching career began as a graduate assistant at his alma mater, Bowling Green in 1975. His tenure included 19 seasons at West Virginia under Don Nehlen.
“It has been a blessing for my family and me to spend this time at Kent State, culminating a coaching career of over 40 years,” McMichael added. “I wish nothing but the best for the Kent State football program.”
“We appreciate Dave, Karen and John for being a part of our Kent State Football Family,” Head Coach Paul Haynes said. “He has meant so much to this team and this profession. He has devoted his life to building young men. College football is going to miss a great ambassador the game. We appreciate his time and friendship and wish him luck in retirement.”
Kent State opens its 2017 season Sept. 2, at Clemson.
I’d think that no matter what the profession you call your own may be, one can only hope that after four decades you can hang it up on your own terms and with your head held high. McMichael is definitely doing that. Best wishes!