In a heartfelt tribute to one of college football’s most revered figures, **West Virginia University** has officially announced plans to erect a **statue honoring legendary Mountaineer football coach Don Nehlen**. The announcement comes as a celebration of Nehlen’s enduring legacy, leadership, and transformative impact on WVU athletics and the state of West Virginia.
Coach Nehlen, who led the Mountaineers from **1980 to 2000**, remains the winningest coach in program history, with **149 victories**, **13 bowl appearances**, and two **undefeated regular seasons**. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2005 and is credited with elevating WVU football to national prominence.
The statue will be installed outside **Milan Puskar Stadium**, serving as a permanent reminder of the values Nehlen instilled: integrity, discipline, and pride in the gold and blue.
> **“This is more than just a statue,”** said WVU President Gordon Gee. **“It’s a symbol of a man who shaped generations of players and left an indelible mark on our university and our state.”**
Coach Nehlen, now 89, expressed deep gratitude for the honor:
> **“I’m humbled beyond words. I’ve always said West Virginia is my home, and this means more than I can ever describe.”**
A public unveiling ceremony is planned for later this fall, expected to draw former players, university officials, and fans from across the country.
**Don Nehlen’s legacy now becomes eternal — not just in the hearts of Mountaineers, but in bronze, standing tall where it all began.**
