‘RIP Coach’: Colorado Athlete Mourns The Tragic Demise of 62-YO Famous Football Icon

The Illinois football community is in shock after the sudden passing of their legendary offensive assistant, Dana Dimel. Former players and colleagues are now reflecting on the lasting impact he had on their lives. His departure feels like a blow to the heart of those who shared the field with him, whether as a coach or as a mentor. Dimel’s true legacy lies in his commitment to building character and strength in his players, a legacy that will endure long after his time on the sidelines. His memory lives on, and his influence will never be forgotten.

Well, this unfortunate incident took place on December 3rd while coach Dana Dimel was asleep at the age of 62. His passing not only impacted the Illinois team but also every other team and their players who were part of Dimel’s life. Today Buffs offensive lineman Justin Mayers took to IG to share his heartfelt gratitude towards him, saying, “RIP Coach D.”. Coach Dimel was an integral part of the UTEP team for 6 long years before joining Illinois, and even Justin played at UTEP before transferring to Boulder, and his deep connection with Dimel is quite visible on his recent post.

Moreover, Dana Dimel also left a long-lasting impact on the Illinois team. He was one of the major reasons behind Illinois’s 9-3 record in the ongoing season. And this is one of the biggest losses the team has to go through. They are sad but also want to celebrate Dimel’s journey, which he led, the number of lives he has touched, and the impression he left on everyone’s heart. Following the tragic incident, Illinois head coach Bret Arnold Bielema said in a statement released by the university, “Dana was an exceptional person, husband, father, friend, and football coach. He affected the lives of countless coaches, players, and staff members for more than three decades in college football.” That will surely be the case!

Football world remembering Dana Dimel

Dana Dimel’s not just built some great teams, but he’s also been a really good mentor to his players. Especially during his time at UTEP, Miners Dimel made many young players feel at home and also believed in them when even they couldn’t figure out what to do with their lives. One such example of them is UTEP’s offensive lineman Tyrone McDuffie, who got his first shot to play in CFB because of Dimel’s unwavering belief in him. Tyrone reflects on the emotions and remembers the legendary coach saying, “I first met coach Dimel and (offensive line coach Mike) Simmonds at the time in the parking lot at the end of a win. I was only in the 8th grade at the time. He had a big smile and told me they would keep an eye out for me. Even though I only played with him for one season, it felt like I knew him all six years he was here.”

Well, that’s the impact Dana Dimel has over every person he meets; in some way or another, he only tried to uplift them to be a better version of themselves. Even UTEP Miners President Heather Wilson believes the same about Dimel’s presence, which only made positive changes in his surroundings and always resulted in better outcomes for them. As Wilson says, “He was unfailingly pleasant and decent to all. My thoughts are with his family and the hundreds of student-athletes who were positively impacted by him over decades as a coach.” It’s one of those days when you ask for your one wish from someone true, which can change your destiny. With all the love and gratitude, may his soul finally rest in peace.