Every player at Lackawanna College owes a nod to Mark Duda, a coach who believed in giving chances. “Sometimes, they need to give themselves one too,” he often remarked.
The storied coach retired in November following a Parkinson’s diagnosis received last year. His influence and career are now being spotlighted on WVIA-TV’s Keystone Edition, which airs Monday at 7 p.m.
The Scranton native discussed his coaching journey and the legacy he left at Lackawanna during an hour-long session taped with a live audience.
Originally from Plymouth, Duda spent five seasons in the NFL before dedicating 32 years to coaching at Lackawanna, where he mentored thousands of athletes.
Influence at Lackawanna
For many aspiring Division I and NFL players, Duda’s support was crucial. His decision to hold 6 a.m. workouts emphasized discipline and resilience. “I think they are worthy,” he affirmed.
These rigorous sessions equipped players for their futures, whether in sports or other careers. Duda believed in empathy over sympathy, saying, “If we always are empathetic with our students… not sympathetic.. I think the dividends will be enormous for them and certainly for us.”
Parkinson’s Diagnosis
Last February, Duda learned he had early-stage Parkinson’s, a disorder impacting movement and balance. He now participates in classes at Rock Steady Boxing in Old Forge to help maintain his physical and mental agility.
