Buckeye Reporter

Bowling Green State University (BGSU) has become the first institution in the Mid-American Conference to establish an endowed head football coaching position. This initiative aims to enhance the university's football program, improve recruitment capabilities, and provide ongoing support for student-athletes.

Alumnus Mike Wilcox and his wife, Jan, contributed $2 million to create this endowment. Mike Wilcox is the founder, chairman, and CEO of Toledo-based Wilcox Financial/Wilcox Sports Management. The endowment will ensure continuous support for the football program and aid in a facility project.

Eddie George, former NFL All-Pro and Heisman Trophy Winner who was announced as BGSU's new head coach on March 9, will hold the title of inaugural Mike and Jan Wilcox Head Football Coach at BGSU.

"We're doing it for the program and to pay back the experience and opportunities that were given to us by BGSU," said Mike Wilcox. "The significance of Eddie George and what he's already brought to Bowling Green is very exciting and transformational."

George expressed his gratitude: "I'm incredibly honored to be the inaugural Mike and Jan Wilcox Head Football Coach at BGSU. This gift represents more than financial support—it's a powerful endorsement of where we're headed as a program."

Derek van der Merwe, BGSU Vice President for Athletic Strategy, praised the couple: "There are no more appropriate people to connect to the BGSU head football coach position than Mike and Jan Wilcox."

The concept of endowing coaching positions began in Ivy League schools before spreading to other institutions like Stanford and Northwestern over ten years ago.

BGSU's football team has seen success recently with three consecutive bowl game appearances. The appointment of Eddie George as head coach has further elevated its profile. Additionally, former standout Harold Fannin Jr.'s selection by the Cleveland Browns marked a significant milestone for BGSU athletes.

Mike Wilcox dedicates about one-third of his professional life through his firm representing coaches, athletic directors, conference commissioners, and university administrators. He was inspired by similar endowments at universities such as Notre Dame and Louisiana State University.

"Jan and I felt that the time was right to make this commitment," he said. "BGSU football has had quality coaches...and we hope this gift also honors their legacy."

Wilcox hopes their donation will inspire others: "I believe...the joy of giving is knowing that we can give to initiatives that we believe in." He credits his experiences at BGSU with shaping his successful career path.

"The biggest motivator in giving this gift is for someone to say, 'If they did it, maybe we can do it,'" he concluded.