Jim O'Hora facts for kids

James Joseph O’Hora (born February 16, 1915 – died August 5, 2005) was a famous American college football coach. He coached for over 30 years, mostly at Penn State University. He was known for his strong defenses and helping his teams win many games.

Biography

Growing Up in Pennsylvania

James O’Hora was born in Dunmore, Pennsylvania. His father, Michael, came from Ballina, County Mayo, Ireland. He entered the United States through Ellis Island. His mother, Mary Butler O’Hora, also came from Ireland. James played football at Dunmore High School. He was part of the championship team in 1930. He was also named to the Lackawanna County, Pennsylvania All Academic Team in 1932. He finished high school in 1932.

College Days at Penn State

After high school, James went to The Pennsylvania State College, now known as Penn State. He played as a center for the Penn State Nittany Lions football team. He earned a special award called a "letter" in 1933, 1934, and 1935. In 1936, he earned a degree in Health and Physical Education. He was also certified to teach science, social studies, and physical education in Pennsylvania.

Starting His Coaching Career

O’Hora began his coaching journey in 1936. He worked as a graduate assistant at Penn State while studying for his master's degree. After getting his master's in 1937, he became a high school gym teacher. He was also the head football coach at Roaring Spring High School in Roaring Spring, Pennsylvania. In 1939, he took on more roles. He became the head coach for football, basketball, and baseball at Mahanoy Township High School.

On November 28, 1942, he married Elizabeth Emily Miller. She was a social studies teacher from Mahanoy City. They got married in Brooklyn, New York.

Serving in World War II

In 1942, O’Hora joined the U.S. Navy. He was part of a special physical fitness program. He started as a Chief Petty Officer and was later promoted to Lieutenant. He trained at the Naval War College in Newport, Rhode Island. In 1944, he became the commanding officer of a ship called U.S.S. LSM 8. This ship was part of the Pacific fleet. He served during the Luzon Philippines Campaign.

Coaching Success at Penn State

After World War II, O’Hora returned to Mahanoy Township for one year. Then, in 1946, he joined the Penn State coaching staff. He was a full-time assistant coach for three seasons. He then worked under different head coaches. He spent 16 seasons with Rip Engle (1950–1965). He also worked for 11 seasons with Joe Paterno (1966–1976).

O'Hora first coached the offensive and defensive lines. Later, he became the defensive coordinator and assistant head coach (1974–1976). He was a very important part of Penn State's success. During his 31 years on the staff, the team had 29 winning seasons.

O'Hora led the Nittany Lions defenses for several undefeated teams. These included the teams in 1947, 1968, 1969, and 1973. The 1968 team allowed opponents to score less than 10 points in six games. The 1969 team allowed no more than nine points in seven games. Their last game in 1969 was a 10–3 win in the Orange Bowl. The 1973 defense allowed no more than nine points in their first six games. They finished Penn State’s first 12–0 season with a 16–9 win over Louisiana State University in the Orange Bowl.

During his long career, he coached alongside many famous people. These included Earl Bruce, Frank Patrick, Al Michaels, and George Welsh.

Later Years and Legacy

O’Hora retired from Penn State in 1977. He was an Associate Professor of Health, Physical Education and Recreation. The football program created the Jim O'Hora Award in his honor. This award is given every year to a defensive player. It recognizes their good behavior, loyalty, positive attitude, and improvement during spring practice. In 1992, he was inducted into the Pennsylvania Football Hall of Fame.

He was a great storyteller and loved sharing tales about Penn State football. He had a large collection of photos from his time as a player and coach. He really valued his friendships with other coaches, especially Joe Paterno.

O’Hora was a member of several clubs. These included the B.P.O.E #1600, the American Legion #245, the Penn State Quarterback Club, and the Penn State Football Lettermen's Club.

O’Hora and his wife, Elizabeth, had four children: James, Robert, Margaret, and Donald.

James O’Hora passed away on August 5, 2005, in State College, Pennsylvania. He and his wife, Elizabeth, who died in 2001, are buried at Centre County Memorial Park in College Township, Pennsylvania. His sister, Margaret, and his brother, Vincent, passed away before him.