Today is a special day for the Indiana Hoosiers! Not only do they have dedicated fans supporting them in the stadium, but over 70 members from the 1979 Holiday Bowl team have also joined in the celebration. Adding to the excitement, former head coach Lee Corso will be present for ESPN’s College GameDay, marking a significant occasion for both him and the university.

College GameDay shared a heartfelt video of former Indiana players and coaches meeting Lee: “Coach Corso’s former players and coaches share how much he means to them 🥹.” Lee Corso broke down in tears as former Indiana students lined up to pay tribute to him. It was an AWWW moment! The 89-year-old sports broadcaster is in everyone’s heart. As the beloved coach reflected on his time at Indiana University, where he led the Hoosiers from 1973 to 1982, memories of victories and challenges flooded back for him.

Mark Deal, a former player and coach, expressed his gratitude, stating, “Thank you, coach. You changed my life just by that movement of making me coach something else.” This heartfelt acknowledgement reflects the profound influence Corso has had on his players, providing them with opportunities and guidance that shaped their careers.

Another former player and coach, Jim Shuck, shared his heartfelt message, which highlights Corso’s commitment to fostering talent and building meaningful relationships with his players. “He got me started in the coaching business, gave me an opportunity, stuck with me, and never forgot that.” 

The testimonials do not stop there! We have Terry Tallen, a defensive tackle from 1977 to 1980’s statement as well. Terry emphasized the love and support Corso provided to everyone he coached. He remarked on how Corso gave chances to players and coaches alike, stating, “The reason I think a big part of it too is the theme, as he gave everybody a chance. Whether you were a coach that was hired, he wrote a player that got a scholarship, and it’s love. I mean, we love it, and then we know that he loves us; he’s always loved us.”

Today is “Coach Lee Corso Day”

No one is stopping the celebration of Coach Lee Corso, and Mayor Kerry Thompson is no exception. She has officially declared October 26 as “Coach Lee Corso Day” in Bloomington, Indiana. Yes! Lee is going to cherish this day forever. This special recognition comes as part of the festivities surrounding ESPN’s College GameDay, which is broadcasting live from the city.

Even Corso’s health could not stop him from returning to Bloomington, where he remains a cherished figure among fans and former players. Kerry Thompson honored Corso with a framed plaque to celebrate his significant contributions to the university and college sports. On3 reported Corso’s emotional gratitude message, “I want to thank you very much for coming and being here, and thank you, Mayor. I appreciate it very, very much.” 

As Corso stood before the crowd, his emotional gratitude resonated deeply with everyone present. The atmosphere was electric, filled with nostalgia and appreciation as fans and former players celebrated not just his return but the legacy he has built over decades. Are you his fan? He has been a big support for the Indiana Hoosiers’s football program. Will the current head coach, Curt Cignetti, and his squad maintain their winning streak?