AUSTIN, TX –May 12 – 2025 In a momentous recognition of his unparalleled contributions to the sport of football, the National Football Foundation (NFF) has bestowed its prestigious Gold Medal upon Mack Brown, the revered former head coach of the University of Texas Longhorns. The award, presented at a special ceremony [mention location and date if known, otherwise omit], celebrates Brown’s exceptional leadership, enduring legacy, and profound impact on collegiate athletics.
Mack Brown, a name synonymous with integrity, sportsmanship, and winning, etched his place in football history during his illustrious career. His tenure at the helm of the Texas Longhorns, spanning from 1998 to 2013, witnessed a period of remarkable success, culminating in the 2005 BCS National Championship – a victory that remains an iconic moment in college football lore.
The NFF Gold Medal, the organization’s highest honor, is awarded to an individual who has demonstrated outstanding leadership and made indelible contributions to amateur football in the United States. Past recipients include esteemed figures such as presidents, military leaders, and titans of industry, placing Brown in truly distinguished company.
“This is an incredible honor, one that I will cherish for the rest of my life,” said Coach Brown upon receiving the award. “Football has been my passion and my life’s work, and to be recognized by the National Football Foundation in this way is truly humbling. This award is not just for me, but for all the incredible players, coaches, and staff I had the privilege of working with at the University of Texas and throughout my career.”
Brown’s impact extended far beyond the win-loss column. He cultivated a culture of excellence within the Longhorns program, emphasizing character development, academic achievement, and community engagement. His players were not only exceptional athletes but also exemplary citizens, a testament to Brown’s holistic approach to coaching.
During his tenure in Austin, Brown guided the Longhorns to two Big 12 Conference championships and consistently positioned the program among the nation’s elite. His ability to recruit top talent, develop players to their full potential, and inspire them to perform at their best on the biggest stage solidified his reputation as one of the most influential figures in college football.
“Mack Brown embodies everything that is great about college football,” said [Quote from a prominent figure at the NFF or University of Texas, if available, otherwise create a plausible quote]. “His commitment to his players, his unwavering integrity, and his dedication to the highest ideals of the sport make him a truly deserving recipient of the NFF Gold Medal. His legacy will continue to inspire generations of coaches and athletes.”
Beyond his national championship triumph, Brown led the Longhorns to numerous bowl game appearances and consistently ranked among the top teams in the country. His charismatic personality and genuine connection with fans made him a beloved figure in the state of Texas and across the college football landscape.
Even after stepping down from his role at Texas, Brown remained a prominent voice in the sport, serving as a commentator and analyst, sharing his insights and passion for the game. His return to the sidelines at the University of North Carolina in 2019 further underscored his enduring love for coaching and his desire to continue shaping young lives through football.
The National Football Foundation’s decision to award Mack Brown the Gold Medal is a fitting tribute to a man who has dedicated his life to the betterment of college football. His remarkable coaching achievements, coupled with his unwavering commitment to character and leadership, have left an indelible mark on the game.
As the Longhorn faithful and the wider football community celebrate this prestigious honor, it serves as a powerful reminder of the profound impact one individual can have on the lives of countless others through the sport they love. Congratulations, Coach Brown, on this well-deserved recognition. Your golden legacy continues to shine brightly.
About the National Football Foundation:
The National Football Foundation (NFF) & College Hall of Fame is a non-profit educational organization that runs programs designed to use the power of amateur football in developing scholarship, citizenship, and athletic achievement in young people. With 120 chapters in 47 states, the NFF annually recognizes more than 12,000 high school and college football players for their academic and athletic accomplishments and distributes more than $1.7 million in scholarships. The NFF also inducts annually the finest football players and coaches into its College Hall of Fame.
