Gerry Faust, a name etched in the annals of American football history, passed away at the age of 89. Known for his raspy voice and unyielding optimism, Faust’s life journey from a high school coach to leading the storied Notre Dame Fighting Irish is a testament to the power of dreams, faith, and resilience. His story is not just one of wins and losses but of a man whose passion for football and belief in destiny inspired many.
A Humble Beginning in Dayton
Born Gerard Anthony Faust Jr. on May 21, 1935, in Dayton, Ohio, he grew up surrounded by the world of football. His father, Gerard Sr., affectionately called “Fuzzy,” was a coaching legend at Chaminade High School. Under his father’s tutelage, young Gerry played quarterback and learned the nuances of the game.
After graduating in 1953, Faust attended the University of Dayton, where he played quarterback and graduated in 1958 with a degree in marketing and management. He returned to his alma mater, Chaminade, as an assistant coach, thus beginning a remarkable coaching career.
Building a Legacy at Archbishop Moeller
In 1960, Gerry Faust was tasked with building a football program at Archbishop Moeller High School, a new Catholic school in Cincinnati. It was here that he truly made his mark. Over the next two decades, Faust transformed Moeller into a powerhouse.
By 1963, just three years into the program, his team posted an impressive 9-1 record. Over 18 seasons, Faust’s Moeller teams achieved:
Nine undefeated seasons.
Ten city championships.
Eight regional titles.
Five state championships in Ohio’s largest school division.
Four mythical national championships in 1976, 1977, 1979, and 1980.
Faust ended his high school coaching career with an astonishing record of 174-17-2, cementing his reputation as one of the greatest high school football coaches in history.
The Bold Experiment: From Moeller to Notre Dame
In 1981, Gerry Faust’s lifelong dream came true when he was appointed head coach of Notre Dame. As a fifth grader, Faust had dreamed of leading the Fighting Irish, often riding his bike to practice while humming the Notre Dame fight song.
Notre Dame’s decision to hire Faust, a coach with no college-level experience, was met with widespread skepticism. Dubbed the “Bold Experiment,” the move placed immense pressure on him to deliver results at one of the most revered programs in college football.
Faust’s tenure at Notre Dame lasted five years (1981-1985), during which he compiled a 30-26-1 record. Though his time with the Irish was marked by inconsistency, he had moments of triumph, including a memorable 19-18 victory over Boston College in the 1983 Liberty Bowl.
Despite the challenges, Faust remained optimistic. “Ever since I’ve been in the fifth grade… I used to sing the Notre Dame fight song,” he once said. “The story is one of the great stories you’ve ever heard.”
A New Chapter at the University of Akron
After stepping down from Notre Dame, Faust continued his coaching career at the University of Akron, leading the program from Division II to Division I-A. Over nine seasons (1986-1994), he amassed a record of 43-53-3 with the Zips.
Though Akron did not replicate his previous successes, Faust’s dedication to the program and his players remained unwavering. He stayed with the university after his coaching days, working in the development office and as a fundraiser until his retirement in 2001.
The Faith and Optimism That Defined Him
Gerry Faust’s life was deeply rooted in his Catholic faith. Unlike most football coaches, he often encouraged players to recite the Hail Mary during critical moments in games. His unshakable belief in divine guidance and relentless positivity made him a beloved figure, even in the face of professional setbacks.
When reflecting on his time at Notre Dame, Faust famously said, “I only had 26 miserable days, and that’s when we lost.” This statement encapsulates his outlook on life—choosing to focus on the good and learning from the bad.
A Lasting Legacy
Gerry Faust’s story is one of determination, faith, and an unwavering belief in the power of dreams. From his dominant high school coaching career at Moeller to his time at Notre Dame and Akron, Faust left an indelible mark on the football world.
He is survived by his wife of 60 years, Marlene; his sons, Gerry and Stephen; his daughter, Julie; his brother, Frederick; and seven grandchildren. His influence extends beyond wins and losses—his story inspires those who dare to dream big and persevere against all odds.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gerry Faust
1. Who was Gerry Faust?
Gerry Faust was a high school football coaching legend who became the head coach of Notre Dame and later coached at the University of Akron.
2. What was Gerry Faust’s record at Archbishop Moeller High School?
At Moeller, Faust achieved an incredible 174-17-2 record, including nine undefeated seasons and five state championships.
3. Why was Gerry Faust’s hiring at Notre Dame called the “Bold Experiment”?
Notre Dame hired Faust directly from the high school ranks, a rare move for a major college program. His lack of college coaching experience made the decision highly unconventional.
4. How long did Gerry Faust coach at Notre Dame?
Faust coached Notre Dame for five seasons, from 1981 to 1985, with a record of 30-26-1.
5. What was Gerry Faust’s role after retiring from coaching?
After retiring, Faust worked as a fundraiser and in the development office at the University of Akron until 2001.
Gerry Faust’s life was a journey fueled by faith, passion, and perseverance. His legacy reminds us that success is not just about victories but about the spirit with which we chase our dreams.