A closer look at the defining struggles that shaped Hayden Fry's life and career.
John Hayden Fry was a prominent American college football coach and player. He held head coaching positions at Southern Methodist University (SMU), North Texas State University, and most notably, the University of Iowa, where he coached from 1979 to 1998. Fry amassed a career coaching record of 232–178–10. He also played college football at Baylor University. His contributions to the sport led to his induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2003.
1969: Start of Down Years
From 1969 to 1971, Fry's Mustangs had a 12-20 record, jeopardizing Fry's job.
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1971: Start of Down Years
From 1969 to 1971, Fry's Mustangs had a 12-20 record, jeopardizing Fry's job.
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1972: Fired from SMU
In 1972, after a 7-4 season, Hayden Fry was fired from his position as head coach at SMU.
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1972: Fired from SMU
In 1972, after a 7–4 season, Hayden Fry was fired at SMU, preventing the Mustangs from a bowl berth.
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1979: Losing Season
In 1979, Iowa had a losing season, raising questions about Fry's future with the team.
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1980: Losing Season
In 1980, Iowa had another losing season, raising questions about Fry's future with the team.
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1987: SMU Program Shut Down
In 1987, SMU's football program was shut down due to massive misconduct, related to the slush fund that Fry had opposed.
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1994: Struggling Season and Criticism
In 1994, Iowa struggled to a 5-5-1 record, leading some to question Hayden Fry's future as coach.
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1994: Hawkeyes struggle
In 1994, the Hawkeyes struggled to a 5–5–1 record. Critics questioned if Fry's coaching career was at an end.
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November 22, 1998: Fry Announces Retirement
On November 22, 1998, Hayden Fry announced his retirement from the University of Iowa, after secretly undergoing radiation treatments for prostate cancer during his final season.
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