A former IUP and Indiana High School football coach who was beloved by both programs has passed away.
(Photos courtesy IUP)
IUP Football has announced the passing of Bernie McQuown, their former special teams and defensive ends coach. Football was a big part of McQuown’s life. He graduated from Juniata in 1958, where he was an All-American Offensive Guard. His coaching career started in Punxsutawney as an assistant coach before his head coach career started in 1959 with East Brady for three years, and four more at Kane before starting at Indiana High School. He was head coach of the Lil’ Indians from 1966 to 1986. In that time, he had a record of 133 wins, 56 losses and nine ties. In his final five seasons, his record was an impressive 40-10-2. He also helmed two undefeated seasons in 1976 and 1985. His teams won three CENPAC championships and three Western Conference Titles.
WCCS’s Bill Otto gave us his perspective as one of his sons played under Coach McQuown
Also in his time at Indiana, McQuown was a history teacher for seven years, and a guidance counselor for 25 years.
McQuown also worked for 27 years in IUP’s football program, with his tenure ending in 2013 after 27 seasons.
Current IUP Head Coach Paul Tortorella said McQuown was a great influence, not just on his personal life, but in the lives of the players he coached. Tortorella said he has received many texts from former players paying tribute to McQuown.
Sports broadcaster Jack Benedict broadcast many of the games at Indiana High, as he started in McQuown’s fourth season at Indiana High. Benedict had high praise not only for the football accomplishments, but for how McQuown lead his life.
An obituary announcement has not been made as of yet. Tortorella said that starting with next week’s game, a “BM” sticker will be worn on the back of IUP’s helmets for the rest of this season.
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