Could a man truly be defined by a game, yet transcend it simultaneously? Buddy Teevens, a name synonymous with Dartmouth football, not only achieved gridiron greatness but also revolutionized player safety and left an indelible mark on everyone he met.
On a Tuesday marked by sorrow, the world of college football, and indeed the broader community, mourned the loss of Eugene F. "Buddy" Teevens III. The former Dartmouth head football coach, aged 66, succumbed to injuries sustained in a bicycle accident in St. Augustine, Florida, back in March. His passing on September 19, 2023, marked the end of an era, leaving behind a legacy of athletic achievement, innovative thinking, and profound human connection.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Eugene F. "Buddy" Teevens III |
| Born | 1956 (Approximate, based on age at death) |
| Died | September 19, 2023 (Age 66) |
| Cause of Death | Injuries sustained in a bicycle accident |
| Place of Accident | St. Augustine, Florida |
| Alma Mater | Dartmouth College ('79) |
| Playing Career | Quarterback, Dartmouth College |
| Coaching Career |
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| Notable Achievements |
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| Family |
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| Legacy |
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| Reference | Dartmouth Athletics Official Website |
The news of Teevens' passing rippled through the Dartmouth community and beyond. Interim coach Sammy McCorkle, who had worked alongside Teevens for two decades, gathered the team to share the devastating announcement. The impact of this loss extended far beyond the field; Teevens was remembered not just for his coaching prowess but also for his character and the bonds he forged with his players and the wider community.
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Teevens's younger brother, Shaun Teevens ('82), took the podium, offering poignant reflections on their shared history. He encapsulated his brothers essence with twelve powerful words: Leader, motivator, hard worker, determined, competitive, creative, humble, positive, compassionate, loyal, tough, and fun. These words painted a portrait of a man driven by passion, integrity, and a deep love for the game and the people in his life.
Buddy Teevenss career was marked by both success and innovation. He played quarterback for Dartmouth in the 1970s, culminating in an Ivy League Championship in 1978. He then returned to lead his alma mater, amassing a record that cemented his place in Dartmouth football history. He is the winningest coach, leading the Big Green to five more Ivy League crowns.
His influence, however, extended beyond the wins and losses. Teevens was a pioneer in player safety. Recognizing the inherent risks of football, he implemented innovative strategies to mitigate them. He eliminated tackling from practices, and he was one of the first to adopt robotic tackling dummies, to protect his players from concussions and injuries. His commitment to player well-being was recognized by various organizations, including the Ivy League, the NFL, and the Concussion Legacy Foundation.
Those who knew Buddy Teevens spoke not only of his professional achievements, but also of his exceptional character. He was known as a thoughtful and caring individual, someone who genuinely connected with those around him. He built lasting relationships with his players, fostered a culture of inclusivity, and maintained strong bonds with them even after they graduated. He led his players in singing the alma mater after every game.
The impact of Teevens's life will continue to be felt. Dartmouth plans to dedicate Buddy Teevens Stadium at Memorial Field in his honor on October 4, the day before the Big Green's first Ivy League home game of the 2024 season. The university is also establishing an endowed scholarship fund in his and his wife, Kirsten Teevens', name to honor the culture of inclusivity they fostered. These tributes reflect the profound impact he had on the university and the broader community. Moreover, a documentary, directed by Rory Karpf, executive produced by Peyton Manning, and produced by Omaha Productions, is set to premiere on ESPN2, offering a glimpse into the extraordinary life and career of Coach Teevens.
The Teevens family has also received an outpouring of support. His wife, Kirsten Teevens, their children Lindsay and Buddy Jr., and their four grandchildren, are in the thoughts of many. The Dartmouth community, along with the wider world of football, mourns the loss of a true leader, innovator, and a remarkable human being.
Buddy Teevens was more than a coach; he was an educator, a mentor, and a friend. His legacy is not solely defined by championships and innovation, but by the positive influence he had on countless lives. He leaves behind a legacy of leadership, compassion, and a relentless pursuit of making the game of football safer and more inclusive. His contributions to the game, the Dartmouth community, and the world will be remembered for years to come.
In reflecting on the life of Buddy Teevens, one is reminded that the true measure of a person lies not only in their accomplishments but also in the impact they have on the lives of others. He was a pioneer, a motivator, and a man of profound character. He leaves a void that will be deeply felt, but his memory will continue to inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him.
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