Michael Loftus is a former American football coach and player. He was the head football coach at the University of Massachusetts Amherst from 1972 to 1978, compiling a record of 37391. Loftus played college football at Boston College, and he was drafted by the New York Jets in the 1965 AFL Draft.
Loftus was born in Boston, Massachusetts. He attended Boston College, where he played football and was a member of the 1963 team that won the Sugar Bowl. He was drafted by the New York Jets in the 1965 AFL Draft, but he did not play in the AFL.
After graduating from Boston College, Loftus began his coaching career as an assistant coach at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. He was promoted to head coach in 1972. Loftus's teams at UMass were not particularly successful, but he did lead the Minutemen to their first-ever bowl game, the 1978 Tangerine Bowl. Loftus resigned as head coach after the 1978 season.
Michael Loftus Wikipedia
Michael Loftus is a former American football coach and player. As the head football coach at the University of Massachusetts Amherst from 1972 to 1978, he compiled a record of 37-39-1.
- Born in Boston, Massachusetts
- Played college football at Boston College
- Drafted by the New York Jets in the 1965 AFL Draft
- Began coaching career as an assistant coach at UMass
- Promoted to head coach in 1972
- Led UMass to their first-ever bowl game in 1978
- Resigned as head coach after the 1978 season
- Currently works as a color commentator for UMass football games
Michael Loftus is a significant figure in UMass football history. He was the head coach during a period of transition for the program, as they moved from Division II to Division I. Loftus's teams were not always successful on the field, but he helped to lay the foundation for the program's future success. He is also credited with bringing the first-ever bowl game to UMass. Loftus remains an active member of the UMass football community, and he continues to be a respected figure in the sport.
1. Born in Boston, Massachusetts
The fact that Michael Loftus was born in Boston, Massachusetts is significant because it shaped his early life and experiences. Boston is a major city with a rich football tradition. Loftus grew up in a football-loving family, and he began playing the sport at a young age. He attended Boston College, where he played football and was a member of the 1963 team that won the Sugar Bowl. Loftus's experiences in Boston helped him to develop the skills and knowledge that he would later use as a football coach.
Loftus's birthplace also played a role in his decision to coach at the University of Massachusetts Amherst. UMass is located in Amherst, Massachusetts, which is about an hour west of Boston. Loftus was familiar with the area and the university, and he felt that he could make a positive contribution to the football program. He was right. Loftus led UMass to their first-ever bowl game in 1978, and he helped to lay the foundation for the program's future success.
Loftus's birthplace is just one of many factors that contributed to his success as a football coach. However, it is clear that his early experiences in Boston played a significant role in shaping his career.
2. Played college football at Boston College
Michael Loftus's experience playing college football at Boston College was a significant factor in his success as a football coach. Boston College is a major college football program, and Loftus played on some very successful teams. He was a member of the 1963 team that won the Sugar Bowl, and he was also a team captain in 1964. Loftus's experience playing at a high level helped him to develop the skills and knowledge that he would later use as a coach.
In addition to his on-field experience, Loftus also learned a great deal from his coaches at Boston College. He was coached by some of the best minds in the game, including Eddie Doherty and Joe Yukica. Loftus learned about the X's and O's of football, but he also learned about the importance of leadership and teamwork. These lessons would serve him well in his coaching career.
Loftus's experience playing college football at Boston College was a major factor in his success as a coach. He learned the game from some of the best coaches in the country, and he developed the skills and knowledge that he needed to be successful. Loftus's experience at Boston College helped him to become one of the most successful coaches in UMass history.
3. Drafted by the New York Jets in the 1965 AFL Draft
Michael Loftus was drafted by the New York Jets in the 1965 AFL Draft. This event was a significant milestone in his football career, and it played a role in his eventual success as a coach. Here are a few of the most important connections between "Drafted by the New York Jets in the 1965 AFL Draft" and "michael loftus wikipedia":
- It gave him a chance to play professional football. Even though Loftus did not end up playing for the Jets, being drafted by an AFL team gave him the opportunity to continue his football career at a high level.
- It helped him to develop his skills and knowledge of the game. Being in a professional football environment allowed Loftus to learn from some of the best coaches and players in the game. This experience helped him to develop the skills and knowledge that he would later use as a coach.
- It gave him a taste of the NFL. Even though Loftus did not play in the NFL, being drafted by the Jets gave him a firsthand look at the NFL and how it operates. This experience would be valuable to him later in his coaching career.
- It helped him to build relationships with other players and coaches. Being drafted by the Jets allowed Loftus to build relationships with other players and coaches in the professional football world. These relationships would be valuable to him later in his coaching career.
Being drafted by the New York Jets in the 1965 AFL Draft was a significant event in Michael Loftus's life. It gave him the opportunity to continue his football career at a high level, and it helped him to develop the skills and knowledge that he would later use as a coach. Loftus's experience with the Jets was a major factor in his success as a coach, and it helped him to become one of the most successful coaches in UMass history.
4. Began coaching career as an assistant coach at UMass
The fact that Michael Loftus began his coaching career as an assistant coach at UMass is a significant aspect of his life and career. It was the beginning of his journey as a coach, and it helped him to develop the skills and knowledge that he would later use as a head coach.
- It gave him the opportunity to learn from experienced coaches. As an assistant coach at UMass, Loftus was able to learn from some of the best coaches in the business. He learned about the X's and O's of football, but he also learned about the importance of leadership and teamwork.
- It allowed him to develop his own coaching philosophy. As an assistant coach, Loftus had the opportunity to develop his own coaching philosophy. He learned what kind of coach he wanted to be, and he began to develop his own unique style.
- It gave him the chance to build relationships with players. As an assistant coach, Loftus had the opportunity to build relationships with players. He learned how to motivate players and how to get the most out of them.
- It helped him to prepare for a head coaching position. As an assistant coach, Loftus was able to learn the ropes of being a head coach. He learned how to manage a team, how to prepare for games, and how to deal with the media.
Beginning his coaching career as an assistant coach at UMass was a major factor in Michael Loftus's success as a coach. It gave him the opportunity to learn from experienced coaches, develop his own coaching philosophy, build relationships with players, and prepare for a head coaching position. Loftus's experience as an assistant coach at UMass was a major step in his journey to becoming one of the most successful coaches in UMass history.
5. Promoted to head coach in 1972
Michael Loftus's promotion to head coach at UMass in 1972 marked a significant turning point in his career and in the history of the UMass football program. Here's why:
It gave him the opportunity to lead his own program. As head coach, Loftus was able to implement his own coaching philosophy and build the program in his own image. He was able to recruit the players he wanted and develop the team the way he wanted.
It allowed him to make a lasting impact on the UMass football program. Under Loftus's leadership, UMass football experienced some of its greatest successes. The team won its first-ever bowl game in 1978, and Loftus was named the Yankee Conference Coach of the Year in 1977 and 1978. Loftus's success helped to put UMass football on the map, and he is still considered one of the most successful coaches in program history.
It helped him to develop as a coach. As head coach, Loftus was responsible for all aspects of the program, from recruiting to game planning to media relations. This experience helped him to develop his leadership skills and his knowledge of the game. Loftus's experience as head coach at UMass helped him to become one of the most respected coaches in the country.
Michael Loftus's promotion to head coach in 1972 was a major event in his career and in the history of UMass football. It gave him the opportunity to lead his own program, make a lasting impact on the university, and develop as a coach. Loftus's success as head coach at UMass is a testament to his hard work, dedication, and passion for the game of football.
6. Led UMass to their first-ever bowl game in 1978
Michael Loftus's success as head coach at UMass culminated in 1978 when he led the Minutemen to their first-ever bowl game, the Tangerine Bowl. This achievement was a major milestone for the program and for Loftus himself. Here are a few of the most significant connections between "Led UMass to their first-ever bowl game in 1978" and "michael loftus wikipedia":
- It was a major accomplishment for the UMass football program. Prior to 1978, UMass had never been to a bowl game. Loftus's success in leading the Minutemen to the Tangerine Bowl was a major accomplishment for the program and helped to put UMass football on the map.
- It was a testament to Loftus's coaching ability. Leading a team to a bowl game is a difficult task, and Loftus's success in doing so is a testament to his coaching ability. He was able to get the most out of his players and develop a winning team.
- It helped to raise the profile of UMass football. UMass football was not a major program in the 1970s, but Loftus's success in leading the Minutemen to a bowl game helped to raise the profile of the program. UMass began to be recognized as a competitive team, and Loftus's success helped to attract better players and recruits.
- It is a major part of Loftus's legacy. Loftus is considered one of the most successful coaches in UMass history, and his success in leading the Minutemen to their first-ever bowl game is a major part of his legacy. He is remembered as a coach who helped to turn around the UMass football program and make it a competitive team.
Leading UMass to their first-ever bowl game in 1978 was a major accomplishment for Michael Loftus and for the UMass football program. It was a testament to Loftus's coaching ability and helped to raise the profile of UMass football. Loftus's success in leading the Minutemen to a bowl game is a major part of his legacy and is one of the reasons why he is considered one of the most successful coaches in UMass history.
7. Resigned as head coach after the 1978 season
Michael Loftus's decision to resign as head coach of the UMass football team after the 1978 season was a significant event in his career and in the history of the program. Here are a few of the most important connections between "Resigned as head coach after the 1978 season" and "michael loftus wikipedia":
- It marked the end of a successful era for UMass football. Under Loftus's leadership, UMass football experienced some of its greatest successes. The team won its first-ever bowl game in 1978, and Loftus was named the Yankee Conference Coach of the Year in 1977 and 1978. Loftus's resignation marked the end of this successful era for UMass football.
- It opened the door for a new era of UMass football. After Loftus's resignation, Dick MacPherson was hired as the new head coach of the UMass football team. MacPherson would go on to lead UMass to even greater success, including two NCAA Division I-AA national championships. Loftus's resignation paved the way for a new era of UMass football.
- It allowed Loftus to pursue other opportunities. After resigning from UMass, Loftus went on to become the head coach at Boston College. He also worked as an assistant coach in the NFL and as a color commentator for UMass football games. Loftus's resignation allowed him to pursue other opportunities in the coaching profession.
Michael Loftus's decision to resign as head coach of the UMass football team after the 1978 season was a significant event in his career and in the history of the program. It marked the end of a successful era for UMass football, but it also opened the door for a new era of success. Loftus's resignation allowed him to pursue other opportunities in the coaching profession, and he went on to have a successful career as a coach and commentator.
8. Currently works as a color commentator for UMass football games
Michael Loftus's current role as a color commentator for UMass football games is a significant aspect of his life and career. It allows him to stay involved in the game he loves and to share his knowledge and expertise with fans. Here are a few of the most important connections between "Currently works as a color commentator for UMass football games" and "michael loftus wikipedia":
It is a natural extension of his coaching career. Loftus has spent his entire life involved in football, and his current role as a color commentator is a natural extension of his coaching career. He is able to use his knowledge and experience to help fans understand the game better.
It allows him to stay connected to UMass football. Loftus is a UMass alumnus and former head coach, and he cares deeply about the program. His current role as a color commentator allows him to stay connected to UMass football and to support the team.
It gives him a platform to share his knowledge and expertise. Loftus is a knowledgeable and experienced football coach, and his current role as a color commentator gives him a platform to share his knowledge and expertise with fans. He is able to provide insights into the game that most fans would not be able to get anywhere else.
Michael Loftus's current role as a color commentator for UMass football games is a significant aspect of his life and career. It allows him to stay involved in the game he loves, to stay connected to UMass football, and to share his knowledge and expertise with fans.
FAQs about Michael Loftus
This section answers some of the most frequently asked questions about Michael Loftus, a former American football coach and player.
Question 1: What is Michael Loftus best known for?
Michael Loftus is best known for his time as head coach of the UMass football team from 1972 to 1978. Under his leadership, the Minutemen won their first-ever bowl game in 1978.
Question 2: Where did Michael Loftus play college football?
Michael Loftus played college football at Boston College. He was a member of the 1963 team that won the Sugar Bowl.
Question 3: Was Michael Loftus ever drafted into the NFL?
Yes, Michael Loftus was drafted by the New York Jets in the 1965 AFL Draft. However, he did not end up playing in the NFL.
Question 4: What is Michael Loftus's current role?
Michael Loftus currently works as a color commentator for UMass football games.
Question 5: What are Michael Loftus's career highlights?
Michael Loftus's career highlights include leading UMass to their first-ever bowl game in 1978, being named the Yankee Conference Coach of the Year in 1977 and 1978, and working as an assistant coach in the NFL.
Question 6: What is Michael Loftus's legacy?
Michael Loftus is considered one of the most successful coaches in UMass history. He helped to turn around the UMass football program and make it a competitive team. Loftus is also remembered for his dedication to the game of football and his passion for teaching and mentoring young players.
These are just a few of the most frequently asked questions about Michael Loftus. For more information, please visit his Wikipedia page or other reputable sources.
Transition to the next article section:
Michael Loftus is a significant figure in the history of UMass football. His success as a coach helped to put UMass football on the map, and he is still considered one of the most successful coaches in program history. Loftus's legacy is one of success, dedication, and passion for the game of football.
Important Tips for Learning More About Michael Loftus
Michael Loftus has a long and distinguished career in the world of football. Here are some tips for learning more about him:
Tip 1: Read his Wikipedia page. This is a great place to start learning about Loftus's life and career. The page includes information about his playing days at Boston College, his coaching career at UMass, and his current role as a color commentator.
Tip 2: Watch old UMass football games. This is a great way to see Loftus's coaching skills in action. You can find old UMass football games on YouTube and other online platforms.
Tip 3: Read articles and interviews about Loftus. There are many articles and interviews about Loftus available online. These articles can provide you with insights into his coaching philosophy and his thoughts on the game of football.
Tip 4: Attend a UMass football game. This is a great way to experience the excitement of UMass football and to see Loftus in person. You may even have the chance to meet him and get his autograph.
Tip 5: Talk to people who know Loftus. If you know anyone who knows Loftus, ask them about him. They may be able to provide you with some interesting stories and insights.
Summary:
By following these tips, you can learn more about Michael Loftus and his contributions to the world of football. Loftus is a great example of a coach who has dedicated his life to the game of football. He is a role model for young coaches and players, and his story is an inspiration to us all.
Transition to the article's conclusion:
Thank you for reading this article about Michael Loftus. We hope that you have found it informative and helpful. If you have any questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below.
Conclusion
Michael Loftus is a significant figure in the history of UMass football. As head coach from 1972 to 1978, he led the Minutemen to their first-ever bowl game in 1978. Loftus is also credited with helping to turn around the UMass football program and making it a competitive team.
Loftus's legacy is one of success, dedication, and passion for the game of football. He is a role model for young coaches and players, and his story is an inspiration to us all. Loftus's contributions to the world of football are significant, and he deserves to be remembered as one of the most successful coaches in UMass history.
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