UW-L coaching legend Roger Harring has died

Roger Harring, a former player and three-time National Champion coach of the UW-La Crosse football team, passed away Thursday at age 88.

Harring coached for 31 years, retiring in 1999. He won an NAIA Division II title in 1985 and two NCAA Division III titles (1992, 1995).

ESPN named Harring one of the Top 150 Greatest College Football Coaches back in 2019 — coming in 92nd on the list and two spots behind Wisconsin Badgers legend Barry Alvarez. Harring’s 261 victories (261-75-7) ranks 17th all-time, at any collegiate level.

UW-L placed first or second in the WIAC 25 times under Harring, winning conference 15 seasons.

Harring entered the College Football Hall of Fame in 2005.

He earned his bachelor’s degree in physical education from UWL in 1958. He earned two football letters (1955-56).

The Eagles football facility was remodeled and named after the legendary coach in 2009 — Roger Harring Stadium at Veterans Memorial Field Sports Complex.