The Cradle of Coaches Plaza, located at the south gate of Yager Stadium, was established in 2009 through the support of Daniel van Voorhis to honor the legacy of Miami’s legendary coaches. The first bronze statue, depicting his grandfather Thomas van Voorhis, marked the beginning of the project. Sculpted by artist Kristen Visbal at 120% scale, the statues are designed to feel larger than life. Today, the plaza features eleven statues, with the most recent addition unveiled in 2023 to celebrate Miami alumnus and Super Bowl–winning coach Sean McVay.
Miami of Ohio: The Cradle of Coaches
Bob Kurz, a 1958 Miami graduate and former sports information director, is credited with coining the Cradle of Coaches phrase in 1959. He was inspired by the success that came from Miami leaders such as Paul Dietzel, Ara Parseghian, Paul Brown, Weeb Ewbank, and Sid Gillman. In 1983, Kurz wrote the book “Miami of Ohio: The Cradle of Coaches,” outlining how Miamians have revolutionized the game of football in both the collegiate and professional ranks. That legacy has only grown, branching from these legends and continuing to shape the sport, spreading Miami’s influence far beyond Oxford.
Recent Inductees
Nominate a Coach
Do you know a coach associated with Miami University who deserves a place in the Cradle of Coaches? Nominate them below.
