With an overall record of 104-49 in fourteen seasons, Dick Biddle became the winningest coach in Colgate history last season. In 2008, he led the Raiders to the Patriot League Title and the Division I-AA Playoffs.
Read more about the Raiders coach with Coach Insider.
As the winningest coach in Colgate history, how do you keep your players humbled and prepared for each game?
As a coach and as a football player, you are only as good as your next game. You have to continually look at what's ahead of you and not live in the past. There is always your next opponent who will test your competitiveness, and you need to bring your A-game every day. If you can learn that as a football player it will continue on for success in life.
What coach did you most admire growing up and why?
Bobby Bowden. His success and longevity in coaching astounds me. As a coach he has successfully put Florida State football on the map. He has his priorities in order. He's not just a great football coach. He is also a great family man and has various interests outside of football. He has an attitude that I admire. He probably wouldn't remember this, but he was in my home back in the late 60's when he was recruiting for West Virginia University.
What are the top three things you demand from your student-athletes?
First and foremost, I demand their attendance at their academic classes. Education has to come first. Second, I demand that they be accountable for their actions both on and off the field. It's about self discipline and taking responsibility for their mistakes and successes. Third, they must have a passion for Colgate football. If they expect to play here they have to give 110%.
Tell us about a favorite charity that you support.
The American Cancer Association. Our football team was involved in a bone marrow drive last spring and the players were totally immersed in it. It was great for the players to take responsibility for raising awareness and funds for a good cause. We plan on doing it every spring and hopefully, we will get the whole campus involved.
To what extent should coaches be involved in the conduct of their players off the field?
You have to really be involved with your players' conduct off the field. When players make mistakes it not only reflects on him, but it reflects on the team, the coaches, the University and the sport of football. It's so important for a coach to establish a mentor/parent/advisor relationship with players so that what the coach says will be regarded and valued by the players.
If you could add any collegiate head coach to your staff, who would it be and why?
Pete Carroll. He's a great coach with a great defensive mind. On the field he's in total control of his emotions. He doesn't get rattled or panic. His players react to his coaching style and remain focused on their assignments. I have great respect for Pete Carroll's coaching ability, as does the entire coaching community.
What is your favorite movie of all time and the best movie you’ve seen recently?
It’s not very recent, but my favorite movie is Hoosiers. I think it really captures the essence of the importance of teamwork and commitment in athletics. Of course, any movie with Gene Hackman is a must see.
What is your favorite book of all-time?
We Were Soldiers Once and Young by Lt. Gen. Harold G. Moore and Joseph Galloway. It's about the war in Vietnam, which is a time in history that I was very much connected to. The story is a great expression of leadership, integrity, honesty, commitment and sacrifice.
What sports did you play in high school? Which was your best?
At Parkersburg (WV) High School I participated in football, wrestling and tennis. I experienced the most success at football. I was recruited for Division I football while in high school, but being only 17 when I graduated, I decided to do a post-grad year at Fork Union Military Academy and went on to play football at Duke University.
Name one team that you have never played that you would like to face in the future. Why?
At the FCS level I would like to play Appalachian State. I thrive on competition. App State is one of the best, if not the best, FCS teams. If we were playing them it would mean we are in the playoffs.
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