The Marshall University football team's story is one of triumph and tragedy, forever marked by the devastating 1970 plane crash. This event not only shook the university and the Huntington, West Virginia community but also left an indelible mark on the history of college football. In this article, we'll delve into the details of that fateful year, the aftermath, and the enduring legacy of the Thundering Herd. Guys, this is more than just sports; it's a story of resilience, remembrance, and the power of community.

The 1970 Season: A Promising Start

The 1970 football season at Marshall University began with hope and anticipation. The Thundering Herd, led by second-year head coach Rick Tolley, were looking to build on their previous season's performance. Although the team wasn't considered a national powerhouse, there was a sense of optimism surrounding the program. The players were dedicated, the coaching staff was committed, and the fans were passionate. The season opener against Morehead State resulted in a 17-15 victory, fueling excitement for the games to come. Little did anyone know that this season would be remembered for reasons far beyond wins and losses. That victory seemed to signify progress, a stepping stone toward greater achievements. The atmosphere around the team was positive, filled with camaraderie and determination. Players and coaches alike were driven to succeed, setting ambitious goals for the season. However, fate had other plans in store, turning a promising journey into an unforgettable tragedy. The team's focus was on improving their performance each week, striving for excellence on and off the field. This collective dedication created a strong bond among the players, coaches, and support staff, fostering a sense of unity that would be tested in the most unimaginable way. The early season victory only amplified this feeling, solidifying their belief in the potential of the team and the strength of their collective spirit. As they prepared for their upcoming games, there was an underlying sense of excitement and anticipation, unaware of the impending tragedy that would forever alter the course of Marshall University football.

The Fateful Flight: Southern Airways Flight 932

On November 14, 1970, Marshall University faced East Carolina University in Greenville, North Carolina. The Thundering Herd lost the game 17-14. Following the game, the team, coaches, staff, and some fans boarded Southern Airways Flight 932 to return to Huntington. The plane crashed just short of the runway at Tri-State Airport in Kenova, West Virginia. All 75 people on board perished. The plane crash was attributed to poor weather conditions and communication issues between the pilots and air traffic control. The tragedy sent shockwaves through the nation, especially hitting the close-knit community of Huntington. The impact of the crash was devastating, leaving families, friends, and the entire university in mourning. The tight-knit bond that existed within the Marshall University community was shattered, replaced by an overwhelming sense of loss and grief. The images of the crash site and the stories of those who perished resonated deeply, capturing the hearts of people far beyond the borders of West Virginia. The investigation into the crash revealed a series of contributing factors, highlighting the dangers of air travel at the time. The lack of advanced technology and the challenges of navigating through inclement weather created a perilous environment for pilots and passengers alike. The tragedy served as a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the importance of safety regulations in the aviation industry. In the wake of the crash, there was an outpouring of support from across the country, with donations and condolences flooding into Huntington. The collective grief united people in their shared sorrow, fostering a sense of empathy and compassion that transcended geographical boundaries. The memory of those who perished on Flight 932 would forever be etched in the hearts and minds of the Marshall University community and all those touched by the tragedy.

The Aftermath: Grief and Determination

The aftermath of the crash was a period of profound grief and uncertainty. The university and the community mourned the loss of so many lives. Funerals were held, memorials were erected, and the healing process began. However, amidst the sorrow, there was also a sense of determination to rebuild the Marshall University football program and honor the memory of those who had been lost. The university president, Donald Dedmon, played a crucial role in leading the community through this difficult time. He made the courageous decision to continue the football program, believing it was essential for healing and moving forward. This decision was not without controversy, as some felt it was too soon to resume playing football. However, Dedmon's conviction that the program could serve as a symbol of resilience ultimately prevailed. The task of rebuilding the team fell to Jack Lengyel, who was hired as the new head coach. Lengyel faced the daunting challenge of assembling a team from scratch, recruiting players from various sources, including other sports teams and walk-ons. Despite the overwhelming odds, Lengyel and his team were determined to honor the memory of their fallen teammates and coaches. The 1971 season became a symbol of hope and resilience, as the young Thundering Herd took to the field with a renewed sense of purpose. Although the season was not without its struggles, the team's unwavering spirit and determination inspired the entire community. The games were filled with emotion, as fans rallied behind the team, honoring the memory of those who had been lost. The rebuilding of the Marshall University football program was a testament to the strength and resilience of the human spirit, demonstrating the power of hope in the face of tragedy. The legacy of the 1970 team would forever be remembered, serving as a reminder of the importance of unity, perseverance, and the unwavering pursuit of dreams.

The Young Thundering Herd: Rebuilding a Legacy

Jack Lengyel, the newly appointed coach, had an incredibly difficult task: rebuild the football program. He had to find players, coaches, and create a sense of unity in the face of immense grief. Lengyel's efforts were nothing short of heroic. He scoured the university for athletes from other sports, recruited walk-ons, and pieced together a team that was affectionately known as the "Young Thundering Herd." The 1971 season was emotionally charged. The team's first game was against Xavier, and Marshall won 15-13 on a last-second field goal. This victory was more than just a win; it was a symbol of hope and resilience for the entire community. The season was tough, but the team played with heart and determination, honoring the memory of those who had been lost. The story of the Young Thundering Herd is a testament to the power of the human spirit. Despite facing unimaginable adversity, they persevered, embodying the values of courage, resilience, and unity. Their efforts not only rebuilt the football program but also helped heal a community that had been deeply wounded. The legacy of the 1971 team continues to inspire generations of Marshall University students and athletes, reminding them that even in the darkest of times, hope can prevail. Their story serves as a reminder of the importance of honoring the past while embracing the future, and of the strength that can be found in community and shared purpose. The Young Thundering Herd's unwavering spirit and determination will forever be etched in the annals of Marshall University history, a testament to their extraordinary resilience and the enduring power of the human spirit.

Remembering the 75: Memorials and Remembrance

The 75 lives lost in the crash are forever remembered at Marshall University. The Memorial Fountain on campus serves as a central place of remembrance. The fountain's water flows continuously, symbolizing the eternal memory of those who perished. Every year on November 14, a memorial service is held at the fountain, where the names of the 75 victims are read aloud. This solemn ceremony is a time for reflection, remembrance, and healing. The university also maintains a memorial plaque inside the student center, listing the names of the victims. These memorials serve as a constant reminder of the tragedy and the importance of honoring the lives that were lost. The impact of the crash extends beyond the university, with memorials and remembrance events held throughout the Huntington community. The story of the Marshall University football team and the 1970 plane crash has also been shared through books, documentaries, and the movie "We Are Marshall." These efforts ensure that the memory of the 75 victims is never forgotten and that their story continues to inspire generations to come. The commitment to remembrance is a testament to the enduring power of community and the importance of honoring those who have touched our lives. The memorials and remembrance events serve as a source of comfort and healing for the families and friends of the victims, providing a space for them to come together, share their memories, and support one another. The legacy of the 75 lives lost will forever be woven into the fabric of Marshall University, serving as a reminder of the importance of cherishing each moment and living life to the fullest.

"We Are Marshall": The Movie's Impact

The 2006 film "We Are Marshall," starring Matthew McConaughey, brought the story of the Marshall University football team and the 1970 plane crash to a wider audience. The movie depicts the events leading up to the crash, the aftermath, and the rebuilding of the football program. While the film takes some creative liberties, it captures the essence of the tragedy and the resilience of the Huntington community. "We Are Marshall" helped to raise awareness of the story and introduce it to a new generation. The film also provided an opportunity for the community to reflect on the tragedy and its lasting impact. Some critics argued that the movie sensationalized certain aspects of the story, but overall, it was praised for its portrayal of grief, hope, and the power of unity. The film's success helped to solidify the legacy of the 1970 Marshall University football team and ensure that their story would continue to be told for years to come. Beyond its entertainment value, "We Are Marshall" served as a tribute to the 75 lives lost and a celebration of the human spirit's ability to overcome adversity. The film's message of hope and resilience resonated with audiences around the world, inspiring them to face their own challenges with courage and determination. The movie's impact extended beyond the screen, fostering a renewed sense of pride and unity within the Marshall University community and serving as a reminder of the importance of honoring the past while embracing the future.

The Enduring Legacy of Marshall University Football

The story of the Marshall University football team is more than just a sports story; it's a story of resilience, remembrance, and the power of community. The 1970 plane crash was a tragedy that forever changed the university and the Huntington community, but it also served as a catalyst for healing and growth. The rebuilding of the football program became a symbol of hope, demonstrating the ability of the human spirit to overcome adversity. The memory of the 75 lives lost is honored through memorials, remembrance events, and the ongoing commitment to preserving their story. The legacy of the 1970 Marshall University football team continues to inspire generations of students, athletes, and community members. Their story serves as a reminder of the importance of unity, perseverance, and the unwavering pursuit of dreams. The Thundering Herd's journey from tragedy to triumph is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the enduring power of hope. Their story will continue to be told and remembered, ensuring that the legacy of the 1970 Marshall University football team lives on forever. The impact of their story extends far beyond the football field, serving as a source of inspiration and resilience for all who face adversity in their own lives. The enduring legacy of Marshall University football is a testament to the power of community, the importance of remembrance, and the unwavering belief in the human capacity to overcome even the most devastating challenges. This is a great story guys, and it needs to be remembered.