Mark Duda: The Pillar Behind Lackawanna College’s Football Legacy
At the heart of Lackawanna College’s football program stands Mark Duda, a coach who has been instrumental in shaping the futures of countless young athletes. For 32 years, Duda has been a beacon of hope for players often overlooked due to academic challenges. His dedication at the Scranton school is evident as he starts his days before dawn, walking through McKinnie Hall to wake his players for the 6:30 a.m. practice.
Duda, who is 64, recently announced that this season would be his last as the Falcons’ head coach, due to a Parkinson’s disease diagnosis. This revelation brought tears to the eyes of many young athletes who have come to regard him as a mentor and father figure. “We’re teaching them that we care enough about them to wake them up,” Duda emphasized, highlighting his commitment to their growth and success.
Building a Legacy at Lackawanna
Since the inception of the football program in 1993, Duda has been a cornerstone of Lackawanna College’s success. Over 450 players have transitioned to Division I football, with 25 making it to the NFL. Duda’s record as the most successful coach in the National Junior College Athletic Association speaks volumes about his impact.
During a recent team meeting, Duda shared not only his health condition but also the recent loss of his mother, adding personal weight to his decision to retire. “It was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done,” he admitted.
From NFL Aspirations to Educational Commitment
Growing up in Plymouth, Duda was determined to play in the NFL, a dream he realized after being drafted by the St. Louis Cardinals in 1983. During his five-year career, he played 55 games and recorded 9.5 sacks. Returning to Pennsylvania, he earned a degree in education and joined Lackawanna as the defensive coordinator, later becoming head coach.
Assistant Coach Paul Wiedlich praised Duda as a “truly great coach” and “a better human being,” acknowledging his role in saving the college during tough times. President Jill Murray credited him with enhancing the institution’s reputation and enrollment, saying, “Their lives are changed because of Mark Duda.”
The Impact Beyond the Field
Duda’s influence extends beyond football, as he instills discipline and accountability in his players. He stresses the importance of academics and helps them prepare for life after sports. Michael Johnson, one of Duda’s players, expressed gratitude for the opportunities Duda provided, saying, “He’s everything what I imagined having a head coach (would be like).”
Mark Glowinski, an NFL player, credits Duda for pivotal lessons that shaped his career. “Coach Duda gave me a chance to be on the team, and I think it was one of the most pivotal moments,” Glowinski said. Duda’s mentorship has been essential in guiding players both on and off the field.
A New Chapter for Duda and Lackawanna
As Duda prepares to step down, he will continue his association with Lackawanna College in a part-time role. The school’s transition to Division II athletics will allow players more time to develop and learn from one another. Despite leaving the sidelines, Duda’s legacy will continue to influence future generations of athletes.
In reflecting on his career, Duda remains optimistic despite his health challenges. “You’ve got to look at it from the positive side,” he said. His resilience and dedication have left an indelible mark on the players and community he has served for decades.
