Vernon McCain facts for kids
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| Biographical details | |
|---|---|
| Born | June 4, 1908 Marietta, Oklahoma |
| Died | April 5, 1993 (aged 84) Oxon Hill, Maryland |
| Playing career | |
| Football | |
| 1930 | Langston |
| Position(s) | Quarterback |
| Coaching career (HC unless noted) | |
| Football | |
| 1945–1947 | Tennessee A&I (assistant) |
| 1948–1963 | Maryland State |
| Basketball | |
| 1950–1954 | Maryland State |
| Administrative career (AD unless noted) | |
| 1948–1964 | Maryland State |
| Head coaching record | |
| Overall | 100–21–5 (football) |
| Bowls | 0–2 |
| Accomplishments and honors | |
| Championships | |
| Football 3 CIAA (1955, 1957, 1960) |
|
| College Football Hall of Fame Inducted in 2006 (profile) |
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Vernon E. "Skip" McCain was a famous American football and basketball coach. He was also a mathematics professor. Coach McCain led the football team at Maryland State College for many years. Today, this school is known as the University of Maryland Eastern Shore.
From 1948 to 1963, his football teams had an amazing record. They won 100 games, lost only 21, and tied 5. Because of his great success, McCain was honored in the College Football Hall of Fame in 2006.
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Early Life and Playing Career
Vernon McCain was born on June 4, 1908, in Marietta, Oklahoma. He loved sports from a young age. He played college football at Langston University. In 1930, he played as a quarterback for their team.
After his playing days, McCain became a coach. Before joining Maryland State, he worked as an assistant coach. He coached at Tennessee Agricultural & Industrial State College. This school is now called Tennessee State University. Vernon McCain passed away on April 5, 1993, in Oxon Hill, Maryland.
Coaching Success at Maryland State
Coach McCain became the head football coach at Maryland State College in 1948. He quickly built a very strong team. His teams were known for winning many games. They had several undefeated seasons.
Winning Championships
Under Coach McCain, Maryland State became a top team. They won three championships in the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA). These big wins happened in 1955, 1957, and 1960. His teams were often at the top of their conference.
Notable Seasons
- 1949 Season: The team went undefeated with 8 wins and 0 losses.
- 1950 Season: Another perfect season, finishing with 8 wins and 0 losses.
- 1955 Season: The Hawks had a fantastic 9–0 record. They won the CIAA championship that year.
- 1957 Season: They won the CIAA championship again with a 6–1–1 record.
- 1960 Season: The team secured their third CIAA title with a 5–1–1 record.
Coach McCain's overall record at Maryland State was 100 wins, 21 losses, and 5 ties. This makes him one of the most successful coaches in college football history.
Beyond Football: Basketball and Teaching
Vernon McCain was not just a football coach. He also coached the men's basketball team at Maryland State. He led the basketball team from 1950 to 1954.
Besides coaching, McCain was a dedicated teacher. He worked as a mathematics professor at the university. He helped students learn both on the field and in the classroom. He also served as an athletic administrator from 1948 to 1964.
Legacy and Hall of Fame
Vernon McCain is remembered as a legendary coach. His impact on Maryland State College was huge. He helped many young athletes succeed. His coaching career spanned many years.
In 2006, Coach McCain was honored for his achievements. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame. This is a very special award for coaches and players. It recognizes their lasting contributions to the sport.
