American Coach: The Triumph and Tragedy of Notre Dame Legend Frank Leahy

In this detailed biography, sports journalist Maisel (I Keep Trying to Catch His Eye) showcases the personal and professional lives of Notre Dame football coach Frank Leahy, a member of the College Football Hall of Fame. Born in Nebraska in 1908, Leahy became enamored with Notre Dame at a young age and landed a spot on the football team under famed coach Knute Rockne in 1927. After a career-ending injury on the field, he turned to coaching, first as a line coach at Georgetown and then as head coach at Boston College. He returned to Notre Dame as head coach in 1941. Under his leadership, the team went undefeated six times in 11 seasons. By the time he retired in 1953, he had the second-best record in the history of NCAA Division I football (Rockne was first). While this account focuses mostly on Leahy the coach, Maisel also paints a picture of Leahy the person, depicting his marriage struggles and health problems, including the time he collapsed during a game from acute pancreatitis. He died in 1973 at age 64 after being diagnosed with leukemia. Maisel presents a thorough, multifaceted portrait of a legendary college coach and dedicated Notre Dame alum. This scores. (Sept.)