CONGRATULATIONS: Barry Switzer, Oklahoma Former Head Coach, Awarded the Prestigious National Football Foundation Gold Medal for
In a momentous recognition of his profound impact on the sport, Barry Switzer, former head coach of the University of Oklahoma Sooners, has been honored with the prestigious National Football Foundation (NFF) Gold Medal. This accolade, bestowed by the NFF and the College Football Hall of Fame, is awarded annually to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional qualities of scholarship, citizenship, and leadership, both on and off the field.
Barry Switzer’s coaching journey began at the University of Arkansas, where he played as a center and linebacker. After serving in the U.S. Army, he returned to Arkansas as an assistant coach before moving to the University of Oklahoma in 1966. As Oklahoma’s offensive coordinator, Switzer perfected the wishbone offense, leading to unprecedented success. In 1973, he became the head coach, a position he held until 1988.
Under Switzer’s leadership, the Sooners achieved remarkable feats:
- Three national championships (1974, 1975, 1985)
- 12 Big Eight Conference titles
- A 157–29–4 record, boasting an .837 winning percentage, the fourth highest among NCAA I-A coaches at the time
- A 37-game unbeaten streak from 1972 to 1975
- 148 weeks ranked in the AP Top 5 and 43 weeks at No. 1
- 12 consensus All-America selections and 94 NFL Draft picks, including two No. 1 overall selections
Switzer’s innovative approach and consistent success solidified his legacy as one of college football’s most influential figures.
The NFF Gold Medal is the highest honor presented by the National Football Foundation. It recognizes individuals whose lives reflect the values of those who have excelled in amateur sport, particularly football. Recipients must have achieved success in various fields and demonstrated outstanding public service, contributing notably to the welfare of their country and fellow citizens.
Switzer’s selection for this honor underscores his embodiment of these principles. Beyond his coaching achievements, he has been a steadfast advocate for community service, education, and the promotion of football at all levels.
Even after retiring from coaching, Barry Switzer’s influence remained palpable. He served as the head coach of the Dallas Cowboys from 1994 to 1997, leading the team to a Super Bowl victory in 1995. His tenure in the NFL further demonstrated his adaptability and leadership prowess.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Switzer has been deeply involved in philanthropic endeavors. He co-founded Ground Zero Emergency Training, a program dedicated to training rescue dogs for disaster response. His commitment to community service and his efforts to make a positive impact on society have been integral to his enduring legacy.
Barry Switzer’s induction into the NFF Gold Medal recipients’ esteemed company highlights his lasting impact on the sport and society. His journey from a college player to a legendary coach, and his subsequent contributions to the community, serve as an inspiration to future generations. The NFF’s recognition of Switzer is a testament to the enduring values of leadership, integrity, and service that he has exemplified throughout his life.
