The Longhorns community is grieving the loss of Al Matthews, the first Black coach in Texas history, who made a lasting impact.

The Texas Longhorns football community is mourning the loss of Al Matthews, a pioneering figure in the history of the program and one of the most influential people to ever walk the sidelines at the University of Texas. Matthews, who made history as the first Black coach in Texas athletics, leaves behind an indelible legacy that transcends the sport of football. His contributions to the university, the broader athletic community, and society as a whole are profound, and his passing represents the loss of a trailblazer, mentor, and beloved figure.

Al Matthews: A Groundbreaking Career

Al Matthews’ journey to becoming the first Black coach in the history of Texas athletics was not an easy one. Growing up in a time when opportunities for African Americans in professional and collegiate sports were limited, Matthews broke barriers not only as an athlete but also as a coach. His impact went beyond the victories and losses on the field, as he played an essential role in shaping the culture of Texas football and its community.

Born and raised in Texas, Matthews’ passion for the sport was evident from a young age. He excelled as a student-athlete in high school, and his talent earned him a scholarship to play at Texas Southern University. There, he honed his skills as a player and developed a deep understanding of the game. Matthews’ experience as a student-athlete laid the groundwork for his future career in coaching, as he aspired to give back to the sport that had shaped his life.

His playing days at Texas Southern were only the beginning of his remarkable journey. After completing his college career, Matthews turned to coaching, where his innovative strategies and leadership quickly garnered attention. In a time when opportunities for Black coaches were scarce, Matthews’ work ethic and understanding of the game set him apart, leading to an eventual role with the Texas Longhorns in the 1980s.

A Pioneering Coach in Texas History

Al Matthews made history in 1981 when he was hired as the first Black coach in the history of Texas athletics. At a time when the world of sports, especially college football, was overwhelmingly dominated by white coaches and administrators, Matthews’ appointment was a groundbreaking moment. His hiring was a significant step toward diversifying coaching staffs and breaking down racial barriers in collegiate sports.

Although Matthews was not the head coach of the Texas Longhorns football team, his role as an assistant coach had an immense impact on the program. Working primarily with the running backs and later as an assistant head coach, Matthews was known for his emphasis on discipline, technique, and mentorship. He was dedicated to ensuring that his players not only excelled on the field but also developed the character and values needed for success off the field.

His ability to relate to his players, especially the young African American athletes in the program, made him a beloved figure in the Longhorns’ locker room. Matthews took great pride in fostering an environment of support and camaraderie, encouraging his players to push past obstacles and strive for excellence in all areas of their lives. His influence was not limited to football strategies but extended to life lessons that have stayed with countless athletes long after their time at Texas.

Mentoring the Next Generation

Matthews’ mentorship went far beyond coaching on the field. He took a personal interest in the well-being and development of his players. His ability to guide young men through the trials of college life and professional football was one of his most defining qualities. He was known for his approachability and willingness to listen, always offering advice and wisdom that helped players navigate the complexities of both sports and life.

One of Matthews’ greatest contributions was his commitment to education. He recognized that success in life wasn’t solely determined by athletic performance, and he encouraged his players to prioritize academics and personal growth. Matthews played an instrumental role in helping players balance the demands of football with their education, ensuring that they left the university with valuable degrees and the skills needed to succeed beyond the football field.

Through his mentorship, Matthews helped shape the careers of many players who would go on to have successful professional football careers. His guidance extended beyond the technical aspects of the game, as he taught his players how to be leaders, how to stay disciplined, and how to use their platform to give back to the community.

A Legacy of Leadership and Service

Al Matthews’ impact on the Texas Longhorns football program cannot be overstated. Over his career, he became a key figure in the development of Texas football during a transformative time. His leadership extended beyond the field, as he played a role in the culture-building that ultimately helped the Longhorns achieve success on the national stage.

While Matthews is most well-known for his pioneering work in football, his leadership was also felt in the broader community. As a man who dedicated his life to helping others, he was active in various charitable initiatives throughout his life, working tirelessly to give back to his community and support causes that helped disadvantaged youth. He inspired many not just through his actions but through the values he instilled in others.

Throughout his time with the Longhorns, Matthews was often described as a “quiet giant.” He never sought the spotlight, preferring instead to let his work speak for itself. His players, however, understood the magnitude of his contributions. They saw him as a mentor, a friend, and a role model—someone who led with integrity and whose influence went far beyond football.

Reflections from Former Players and Colleagues

In the wake of Matthews’ passing, tributes have poured in from former players, colleagues, and fellow coaches. Many of those who worked alongside him or played for him have shared heartfelt memories of his leadership and the profound impact he had on their lives.

“I owe so much to Coach Matthews,” said former Longhorns running back Earl Campbell, who went on to become an NFL Hall of Famer. “He wasn’t just a coach—he was a father figure. He taught me lessons that I still carry with me today, both on and off the field. His impact on Texas football and my life is something I will never forget.”

Other former players shared similar sentiments, highlighting Matthews’ ability to bring out the best in them both as athletes and as individuals. Many noted that his leadership transcended football and served as a guiding light during challenging moments in their lives. He was known for his tough love but also his unwavering support, ensuring that his players knew they could rely on him no matter the situation.

A Role Model for Diversity in Sports

Al Matthews’ contributions to the Texas Longhorns football program were ground-breaking in the context of diversity in college sports. As the first Black coach in the history of Texas football, Matthews paved the way for future generations of coaches from diverse backgrounds. His success and leadership showed that there was space for African Americans in all facets of collegiate athletics, including coaching positions traditionally dominated by white men.

His pioneering role helped change the culture of Texas football, making it more inclusive and more attuned to the needs of its diverse student-athletes. Matthews was one of the early voices advocating for the inclusion of people of color in coaching positions, and his impact was felt not only at Texas but also in the broader world of college football.

In addition to being a trailblazer for diversity, Matthews was a mentor to many coaches who followed in his footsteps. Several of his former players and assistant coaches would go on to achieve great success in their own right, and they credit Matthews with helping to shape their approach to leadership and coaching. His legacy lives on through them as they continue to pass down the lessons he taught them to future generations of athletes and coaches.

The Texas Longhorns Remember Al Matthews

The Texas Longhorns football program, as well as the larger athletic community, will forever remember Al Matthews as a man of vision, compassion, and leadership. He was a trailblazer whose contributions helped make Texas football the proud program it is today. His legacy is built not just on the victories achieved on the field but on the countless lives he touched, the players he mentored, and the future he helped shape for both the team and the sport as a whole.

As the Longhorns mourn Matthews’ passing, they also celebrate his legacy. His life serves as a reminder of the importance of breaking down barriers, mentoring the next generation, and giving back to the community. Matthews’ influence will continue to resonate within the Texas football program for years to come, and his name will forever be etched in the history of the Longhorns as one of the most influential figures in the program’s storied history.

In this time of sorrow, the Longhorns community stands united in honoring the memory of Al Matthews. His life and legacy will continue to inspire those who walk through the doors of Texas Athletics, reminding them of the profound impact one person can have on an entire community.