On Wednesday, legendary college football coach Bobby Bowden delivered some upsetting news. The 91-year-old former Florida State coach revealed that he has been diagnosed with a terminal illness.
Bowden, a two-time national champion, is one of the winningest coaches in college football history and has had a profound effect on those that came into contact with him during his life on the sidelines. Because of that, Wednesday’s news was difficult to take for many.
Bowden’s announcement prompted an outpouring of support from the college football community. Among those who sent a message to the coach’s family was current Florida State head coach Mike Norvell.
“Praying for Coach Bowden and his entire family! Incredible man who is loved by so many and the Nole Family is with him,” Norvell wrote on Twitter.
Praying for Coach Bowden and his entire family! Incredible man who is loved by so many and the Nole Family is with him. 🙏🏻
— Mike Norvell (@Coach_Norvell) July 21, 2021
In a statement shared with the Tallahassee Democrat, Bowden said that he is “at peace” with the news of his prognosis. The former Florida State head coach had been diagnosed with COVID-19 last year and has reportedly struggled with his health since.
“I’ve always tried to serve God’s purpose for my life, on and off the field, and I am prepared for what is to come,” Bowden said. “My wife Ann and our family have been life’s greatest blessing. I am at peace.”
After all these years, Bowden still ranks No. 2 behind Joe Paterno on the NCAA’s all-time wins list. His two biggest victories came in 1993 and 1999 when he won national championships at the helm for Florida State. He ran the program until 2009, winning over 300 games.
Norvell will have a chance to make Bowden proud in his first full season at Florida State later this fall.
The post Mike Norvell Sends Message To Legendary Coach Bobby Bowden appeared first on The Spun.