We Are Marshall

On the evening of November 14, 1970, Southern Airways Flight 932 took off with the Thundering Herd football team aboard. They were returning home to Huntington, West Virginia, following a close 17-14 loss to East Carolina University.

Just a mile from Tri-State Airport, the flight tragically clipped trees on a ridge and crashed into a gully. The devastating incident resulted in the loss of all 75 souls on board, including 37 players and coaching staff.

In the aftermath of the crash, the community of Huntington mourned profoundly for the lost lives. The tragedy not only affected families but also left a significant impact on Marshall University's football program and its supporters.

Nate Ruffin, a player who missed the flight due to illness, emerged as a leader among students advocating for the football team's return. His passionate campaign aimed to persuade the board of governors to allow the team to play the 1971 season.

Initially, University President Donald Dedmon leaned towards suspending the football program indefinitely. However, the heartfelt pleas from students and surviving players influenced him to reconsider the decision, leading to hope for the team's revival.

To breathe new life into the team, President Dedmon hired Jack Lengyel as the new head coach. Alongside Red Dawson, one of the two surviving coaching staff, they faced the monumental challenge of rebuilding the team from scratch.

In an effort to strengthen the team, Dedmon traveled to Kansas City to appeal to the NCAA to lift restrictions on freshmen playing varsity football. His successful appeal allowed for a new influx of talent to join the Young Thundering Herd.

With limited resources, the newly formed team included 18 returning players and walk-on athletes from different sports. Lengyel's leadership aimed to redefine competition standards even in the face of adversity.

The Young Thundering Herd made their debut against the Morehead State Eagles, suffering a 29-6 loss. This defeat raised questions among fans and players about the appropriateness of fielding such an inexperienced team.

Undeterred by their initial loss, the team celebrated a historic comeback victory against Xavier University, winning 15-13. This game reignited the town's spirit and honored the memories of the teammates lost in the tragic crash.

Despite their inspiring victory, the Young Thundering Herd did not secure another win for the remainder of the season. However, their resolve and perseverance were integral in laying the foundation for future success.

The hardships faced by the team during the season would eventually lead to extraordinary successes in the coming decades. This season marked the beginning of a transformation that would culminate in five championships during the 1980s.

The journey of the Young Thundering Herd became a symbol of community strength and resilience. The determination and courage shown in the wake of the tragedy inspired generations and forever changed the football program's legacy.