The college football community is in mourning following the unexpected passing of Dana Dimel, a legendary coach who left an indelible mark on the sport through his passion, leadership, and unwavering dedication to his players. Dimel, who most recently served as a senior offensive assistant at Illinois, died on Tuesday at the age of 62, leaving behind a legacy that spans over three decades and multiple programs.
A Coaching Journey Defined by Impact
Dana Dimel’s coaching career was a testament to his ability to shape and develop football programs across the country. He held head coaching positions at Wyoming, Houston, and UTEP, compiling a 50-88 overall record at the FBS level. While his win-loss record may not tell the full story, it was Dimel’s impact on the lives of his players and fellow coaches that truly defined his legacy.
Illinois head coach Bret Bielema, who hired Dimel in July, spoke to the profound influence he had on the program in such a short time, stating, “He affected the lives of countless coaches, players, and staff members for more than three decades in college football. His influence on our program was incredible to witness and be a part of. His infectious positive energy had a major impact on me, our players, and everyone in our building every day. He will be dearly missed.”
The Kansas State Connection
Dimel’s coaching journey began at Kansas State, where he played as an All-America offensive lineman before transitioning to coaching under the legendary Bill Snyder. He served two stints as the Wildcats’ offensive coordinator, most recently from 2009 to 2017, and was a key part of 12 bowl teams and the 2012 Big 12 championship squad.
“Obviously, we are very saddened by the passing of Dana. He was a special friend and coaching companion. I admired his passion for helping his players and fellow coaches. He was a big part of the development of the Kansas State football program, and along with his wife Julie, very meaningful in the Manhattan community.”
– Bill Snyder, former Kansas State head coach
A Career Spanning the Nation
Beyond his time at Kansas State, Dimel’s coaching career took him to various programs across the United States. He spent three seasons each at the helm of Wyoming and Houston, working tirelessly to elevate these programs and instill a winning culture. Dimel also served as an assistant coach at Arizona from 2006 to 2008, further showcasing his versatility and ability to contribute to a program’s success in various roles.
The UTEP Years
Before joining the Illinois staff, Dimel spent six years as the head coach at UTEP, where he faced the challenge of rebuilding a struggling program. Although the wins didn’t come easy, Dimel’s impact on his players and the community was undeniable. He embraced the opportunity to mentor young men and help them grow both on and off the field, a testament to his character and commitment to his role as a coach and leader.
A Legacy That Will Endure
As the college football world mourns the loss of Dana Dimel, it is clear that his legacy will endure through the countless lives he touched throughout his career. From his days as a player at Kansas State to his final coaching role at Illinois, Dimel’s passion for the game and dedication to his players never wavered. He leaves behind a lasting impact on the sport, one that will be remembered and celebrated by those who had the privilege of knowing him and working alongside him.
In a world where wins and losses often define a coach’s success, Dana Dimel’s career serves as a reminder that true greatness is measured by the lives one impacts and the positive change one brings to those around them. As the football community reflects on his life and legacy, there is no doubt that Dimel’s influence will continue to shape the sport for generations to come, through the coaches he mentored, the players he inspired, and the unwavering love he had for the game.
