Girardi Reaches Ultimate Recognition as College Football Hall of Fame Class of 2016

The world changed in 2001 and Lycoming Head Coach Frank Girardi was someone who kept things in perspective and gave much needed support.

WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. – At the end of the 1971 football season, Frank Girardi got a knock on his door. An assistant coach for the Lycoming College football team, he was surprised to find then-Lycoming College President Harold Hutson there. The conversation was quick, as Girardi remembers it, and by the time Hutson left, Girardi was the head coach of the Warriors.

Photos - Retired Head Football Coach Frank Girardi Honored with Statue Dedication

Lycoming Football - Happy 75th Birthday Coach "G"

Happy Birthday Coach "G"

Williamsport, PA - The Girardi family always celebrates great achievements and great events. It was fitting then that they gathered to wish Lycoming's retired Head Football Coach of 36 years a happy 75th birthday on July 16, 2014.

His friends surprised him with a "new" outfit to celebrate in!! Frank wanted to make sure you know that the outfit was a gag gift. He didn't want the Internet to think he dresses like that. We hope you noticed he's wearing his championship ring in the photo. He never leaves home without it!!

At the event, comments echoed all around the room. "Tonight we help celebrate this amazing man's 75th birthday," one family member announced. "Love my Dad," said another. "Happy birthday to the best Papa is the world!" "Youngest 75 year-old I know," quoted another. Just like his wonderful family, Coach Girardi is know for establishing the Lycoming Football Family, an atmosphere that survives to this day.

In 36 years of coaching Lycoming College football, head coach Frank Girardi firmly established himself as a legend in his field. He built one of the most respected and consistently successful NCAA Division III football programs in the nation.

Lycoming College Head Coach Frank Girardi

Record: 257-97-5 (72% in 36 Seasons)

In 36 years of coaching Lycoming College football, head coach Frank Girardi firmly established himself as a legend in his field.   He built one of the most respected and consistently successful NCAA Division III football programs in the nation.

Girardi's career record at Lycoming is 257-97-5 and he ranks 15th on the NCAA all-time winningest coaches list, tied with legendary Brigham Young coach LaVell Edwards. In 2005, Girardi became only the 17th coach at any NCAA level to reach the 250-win plateau.

Girardi Honored For Lifetime Achievement

WILLIAMSPORT, Pa. – Former Lycoming College head football coach Frank Girardi was honored on Sunday night with a lifetime achievement award, presented by ESPN Radio 1050 at the inaugural Night of Champions. After receiving the award, it was announced that in years to come, the honor will be titled the Frank Girardi Lifetime Achievement Award.

Girardi, who was scheduled to be a guest speaker at the inaugural event hosted at the Holiday Inn Grand Ballroom, was surprised when an audio clip featuring former players from as far back as the 1970’s began playing. Players spoke about how Girardi helped to shape their lives, both on and off the field.

Next, Girardi’s four children made their way to the stage to honor him with the ESPN 1050 Lifetime Achievement Award, a fitting tribute on Fathers Day.