Dartmouth football head coach Buddy Teevens has tragically passed away from injuries he suffered in a bicycle accident six months ago, his family announced Tuesday. Teevens, the winningest coach in Big Green history, was 66 years old.
Key Takeaway
Dartmouth football head coach Buddy Teevens has passed away at the age of 66 due to injuries sustained in a bicycle accident. Teevens was known for his innovative approach to player safety and was recognized for his contributions to the game by NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell.
Tragic Loss for Dartmouth Football
The passing of Buddy Teevens has left the Dartmouth football community devastated. In a statement from his family, it was revealed that Teevens peacefully passed away surrounded by loved ones. Despite the immense grief, they take solace in the knowledge that he was deeply loved and admired.
Teevens’ life took a tragic turn when he was hit by a pickup truck in Florida back in March, resulting in the amputation of his right leg and spinal cord injuries. Assistant Sammy McCorkle took over as interim head coach while Teevens focused on his recovery.
Leaders at Dartmouth expressed their condolences, describing Teevens as not only synonymous with the football program but also a beloved coach and inspirational figure who played a significant role in the lives of generations of students.
A Legacy of Innovation and Safety
Teevens’ impact on Dartmouth football goes beyond wins and losses. Throughout his career, he prioritized player safety, particularly in relation to concussions. He implemented groundbreaking techniques to reduce the risk of head injuries, such as eliminating full-contact practices and spearheading the development of the Mobile Virtual Player, a robotic device used for honing tackling skills.
His commitment to player safety did not go unnoticed. NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell recognized Teevens as a leader in advancing the game’s safety measures during the 2023 NFL Draft.
Remembering Buddy Teevens
Teevens’ legacy will be honored during Dartmouth’s game against Lehigh with a moment of silence. His contributions to the football world, both as a coach and a pioneering advocate for player safety, will not be forgotten. The loss of Buddy Teevens leaves a void not only at Dartmouth but also in the hearts of those who knew him and admired his unwavering dedication to the game.
