A Legacy of Resilience: The History of Gallaudet University Football
Gallaudet University, for over 150 years, has been providing a unique educational experience for deaf, hard of hearing and hearing students. More than 95 percent of recent graduates are employed or in graduate school. Discover the rich history of Gallaudet University through its museum. Within this rich history lies a compelling story of the Gallaudet Bison football team, a program that has not only represented the university on the field but has also broken barriers and innovated the game itself. The Gallaudet Bison football team represents Gallaudet University in National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division III competition.
The Early Years and the Birth of the Huddle
The football team was organized in 1883 by coach John B. Hotchkiss, marking the beginning of a storied program. In 1894, the Gallaudet football team was playing against another deaf team. One of the most significant contributions to the sport came in the 1890s. During this time, the football huddle originated at Gallaudet when the team noticed that their opponents were trying to see and read their signs in order to try to guess their plays. To remedy this, quarterback Paul D. Hubbard gathered his teammates in a tight circle, effectively concealing their signs and play calls from the opposing team. This innovation, born out of necessity, has become a standard practice in football at all levels.
A Century of Competition
Gallaudet University's football team has a longstanding rivalry with Catholic University of America, another school in the Washington D.C. area. The rivalry between Gallaudet and Catholic University is one of the oldest and most unique in college football. On September 7, 2012, Gallaudet University defeated Catholic University of America for the first time in the 106-year history of the rivalry between the two D.C. schools. This victory was a momentous occasion.
The Modern Era and a Resurgence
After an undefeated season in 2005, the first time such a season was achieved in the program's 122-year history, head coach Ed Hottle began his campaign to return Gallaudet to the NCAA ranks. After the 2009 football season, Coach Hottle left to become the first head coach of the first football team at Stevenson University. He announced his decision in a heart-felt meeting with the football team. Offensive Coordinator Chuck Goldstein was tapped to be the interim head coach of the football team. In December 2009, Chuck Goldstein was officially named Gallaudet's 36th Head Football Coach.
Playoff Appearance
Gallaudet football prepares for first ever playoff game. The Gallaudet football team's historic season was derailed by Hobart.
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Coaches and Leadership
The Gallaudet University Athletics Hall of Fame recognizes the contributions of numerous coaches and players who have shaped the football program. After stepping down from the head coach position, Chuck Goldstein took a position in University Admissions.
Gallaudet University: A Unique Educational Experience
Gallaudet invites all new deaf and hard of hearing students who don’t know ASL to attend JumpStart, our four-week summer immersion program that will get you ready to jump right into classes and life on campus. The world’s only full interpretation program (B.A., M.A.).
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