Gerry Faust, the legendary head football coach at Notre Dame from 1981-85 and the iconic Moeller High School (Cincinnati) head coach, has passed away at the age of 89. Faust's impact on the sport of football and the lives of countless student-athletes he mentored will be remembered for generations to come.

Inspiring Excellence on and off the Field

A Storied Career at Moeller High School

Gerry Faust's coaching career began at Moeller High School in Cincinnati, where he was selected as the first head football coach. Over the course of 18 seasons, Faust's teams compiled an impressive 174-17 record, including five state championships in his last six seasons. During his tenure, Faust developed over 250 players who went on to earn college football scholarships, with many of them starring at the University of Notre Dame.Faust's success at Moeller was not just about winning games; it was about instilling values, discipline, and a relentless work ethic in his players. He was known for his ability to inspire and motivate his teams, creating a culture of excellence that extended far beyond the football field. Many of Faust's former players credit him with shaping their lives and helping them become successful individuals both on and off the field.

The Notre Dame Calling

Faust's impressive record at Moeller High School caught the attention of the University of Notre Dame, and in 1981, he was hired as the head football coach of the Fighting Irish. This was a dream come true for Faust, who had tried out for the Notre Dame football team in the 1950s before deciding to attend the University of Dayton.During his five-year tenure at Notre Dame, Faust faced immense pressure and scrutiny, as the program had high expectations and a storied tradition. Despite the challenges, Faust remained steadfast in his commitment to developing his players both athletically and personally. He led the Fighting Irish to a Liberty Bowl victory over No. 13 Boston College in 1983 and coached the team to a victory over No. 10 Michigan in the first night game ever played in Notre Dame Stadium during the 1982 season.Faust's impact on the Notre Dame program extended beyond the wins and losses. He helped develop several student-athletes into NFL standouts, including Dave Duerson, Tom Thayer, Greg Bell, Stacey Toran, Mike Gann, Mark Bavaro, and Mike Golic Sr. These players and many others credit Faust with shaping their careers and instilling in them the values of hard work, dedication, and sportsmanship.

Continuing the Legacy at the University of Akron

After his time at Notre Dame, Faust continued his coaching career at the University of Akron from 1986 to 1994. During his tenure, he helped guide the Zips through a transition from an independent program to a member of the Mid-American Conference. In his first year as a MAC member, Akron finished with a 7-3-1 record, showcasing Faust's ability to adapt and succeed in new environments.Faust's time at Akron was marked by his unwavering commitment to developing his players and instilling in them the same values that had made him successful at Moeller High School and Notre Dame. Despite facing challenges and setbacks, Faust remained a steadfast leader, inspiring his teams to reach new heights and leaving a lasting impact on the Akron program.

A Legacy of Inspiration and Mentorship

Gerry Faust's impact on the sport of football extends far beyond his coaching records and accolades. He was a true mentor and role model to countless student-athletes, inspiring them to strive for excellence both on and off the field. Faust's ability to connect with his players, instill in them a sense of purpose, and guide them towards personal and professional success is a testament to his exceptional leadership and coaching abilities.Even after his retirement from coaching, Faust remained a fixture on the Notre Dame campus, attending football games and supporting the program he loved so dearly. His unwavering dedication to the university and his commitment to the sport of football cemented his legacy as one of the most influential and respected figures in the history of college football.As the Notre Dame community and the broader football world mourn the loss of Gerry Faust, they can take solace in the fact that his legacy will continue to inspire and guide future generations of coaches and players. Faust's impact on the lives of those he touched will endure, and his name will forever be synonymous with the values of hard work, integrity, and the pursuit of excellence.