A 1978 Allegheny graduate, Mark Matlak was named the Gators’ head football coach in 2002. The second-winningest coach in program history (61), Matlak was a four-year standout on the gridiron for the Gators. A fullback, he was a three-time All-Presidents’ Athletic Conference selection, and the 1977 PAC Offensive MVP, graduating with 2,382 rushing yards and 28 touchdowns. He was also a four-year baseball starter, splitting time between first base and designated hitter, and was inducted into the Allegheny Athletic Hall of Fame in 1989. He began his coaching career in 1978 at Allegheny, before moving on to the University of New Hampshire, where he spent 13 years on the defensive staff, helping the Wildcats to a trio of Yankee Conference championships. He then returned to his alma mater as the 33rd coach in team history in 2002.
What is your fondest memory as a student-athlete?
Winning the 1976 Presidents’ Athletic Conference football championship.
What has been your fondest memory as a coach?
Winning the 2003 North Coast Athletic Conference title.
If you could coach another sport for a day, what would it be?
Baseball. It is definitely my second love.
What is your favorite bus trip movie?
“Talladega Nights” with Will Ferrell.
What is your least favorite movie for a road trip?
Any horror film.
Favorite television show?
“Mad Men”
Favorite music artist?
The Moody Blues.
Favorite professional sports team?
The Pittsburgh Steelers.
Favorite athlete?
Aaron Rodgers of the Green Bay Packers.
Favorite book?
The Bible.
Dream vacation?
A golf and fishing trip.
You can choose three dinner guests- who would they be?
Abraham Lincoln, Chuck Noll, and Bo Schembechler.
You can choose one historical sports event to go back in time and attend – what would it be?
Super Bowl IX, between the Steelers and Vikings.
What is the top item on your bucket list?
Attend the U.S. Open at Oakmont Country Club.
Describe Allegheny in three words or less?
Striving for excellence.
Who has been your greatest influence during your coaching career?
Sam Timer, who I both played and coached for at Allegheny.
What is the top piece of advice you would give to an incoming freshman student-athlete?
College is a journey, not a destination.
What is the top piece of advice you would give to someone who wants to pursue a coaching career?
Always remember, it is all about the players.
