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Edward L. Finnigan

Edward L. Finnigan

  • Induction Year:
    1968
  • Sport(s):
    Head Coach

Edward L. "Eddie" Finnigan was inducted into the BW Alumni Athletic Association Hall of Fame in 1968.

Finnigan, who joined B-W's athletic staff in 1933, served the College during the next 18 years promoting educational values and scholarship among Yellow Jacket athletes. His personal golden rule guided them as competitors not only in sports, but in academic areas as well.

During his long tenure at B-W, Finnigan held head coaching positions in three intercollegiate sports: basketball from 1935 to 1940, track from 1940 to 1948 and football from 1949 to 1950. As track coach, he guided B-W's track and field team to national prominence with two unbeaten seasons and a 26-meet winning streak.

It was through Eddie's inspiration and friendship that Harrison Dillard, a B-W track star and charter member of the Hall of Fame, went on to the 1948 and 1952 World Olympic Games where he won two gold medals.

After two successful years as the Yellow Jacket's gridiron mentor, Finnigan returned Western Reserve, where he graduated in 1933, to head its athletic program and to coach football. Now his prudent administration as chairman of the Department of Health, Physical Education, Athletics, Recreation and Safety continues to counsel young athletes in scholarship and good sports.

In recognition for his many contributions to the athletic community, the cities of Berea, where he had lived for 34 years, and Cleveland proclaimed November 4, 1967 as "Eddie Finnigan Day."