Tom Verdell facts for kids
| Biographical details | |
|---|---|
| Born | May 8, 1905 Alabama |
| Died | January 4, 1987 (aged 81) |
| Playing career | |
| Football | |
| 1926–1928 | Northwestern |
| Position(s) | End |
| Coaching career (HC unless noted) | |
| Football | |
| 1929–1933 | Howard |
| 1934–? | Virginia State |
| Administrative career (AD unless noted) | |
| 1963–? | Virginia State (acting AD) |
| Head coaching record | |
| Overall | 13–24–3 (football) |
| Bowls | 0–1 |
Thomas Verdell (born May 8, 1905 – died January 4, 1987) was an American college football player and coach. He was known for his long career in college sports. Verdell served as the head football coach at Howard University from 1929 to 1933. During his time there, his team had a record of 13 wins, 24 losses, and 3 ties.
Early Life and College Years
Tom Verdell was born in Alabama in 1905. He grew up in Chicago, a big city in Illinois. He went to Northwestern University, where he played American football. From 1926 to 1928, he played as an end position on the football team.
Coaching Career
After finishing college in 1929, Verdell became a coach. He started as the head coach for football and track at Howard University in Washington, D.C. He coached there for five years.
In 1934, Verdell moved to Virginia State University. He worked as an assistant football coach. He helped other coaches like Harry R. Jefferson and Sylvester Hall.
Long Career at Virginia State
Tom Verdell spent a very long time at Virginia State University, 39 years in total! During these years, he coached many different sports. He was the head coach for boxing, track, and wrestling. He also taught classes in health and physical education. In 1963, he was chosen to be the acting athletic director for the university. This meant he helped manage all the sports programs.
Verdell passed away on January 4, 1987, at the age of 81. He is remembered for his dedication to college sports and his many years of coaching and teaching.
