Legendary FSU coach Bobby Bowden's memorial services this weekend: 'He encouraged people to be their best'

For 26 years, Mickey Andrews watched and learned from Bobby Bowden.

Andrews – Florida State’s acclaimed defensive coordinator under Bowden from 1984-2009 – saw Bowden develop a successful system that maximized the potential of players and coaches.

Andrews marveled at Bowden’s approach that combined a straightforward, competitive style with homespun charm.  

“He was the most caring person – I guess you would call it passionate,” Andrews said.

“It’s amazing how he treated people. That was him. He was there to help you, not hurt you – other than whip your fanny on the football field.

“He genuinely cared about people.”

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Legacy to be honored and celebrated 

Bowden’s legacy will be honored and celebrated over the next three days in Tallahassee and his hometown of Birmingham, Alabama. Bowden died last Sunday at his Killearn Estates home from pancreatic cancer. He was 91.

The Seminoles started winning and winning big after Bowden arrived at FSU in 1976.

His program set an NCAA record with 14-straight winning seasons in the top-5, including two national titles (1993 and 1999)

After losing to Oklahoma in the 2001 BCS National Championship game, however, Bowden’s program began to slide. He won 10 games in only one season from 2001 to 2008, and was forced to resign following the 2009 season.

Bowden was also criticized at times during his tenure for what some perceived as his soft hand at punishment. Bowden, however, said he always tried to be compassionate to players when necessary. 

Bowden’s impact continues to be felt.

“Coach Bowden was the best in getting the best out of your talent and he knew it started with a positive mindset,” said former Leon High and FSU receiver Kurt Unglaub said.

Lesson learned from Bobby Bowden

Unglaub experienced that lesson firsthand.

Unglaub dropped a second-quarter touchdown pass in the Seminoles’ 10-9 defeat against rival Miami during his senior season in 1980. At Monday’s practice two days later, Unglaub said Bowden’s speech to players turned disappointment into desire.

“Coach said, ‘Men, I don’t want you to worry about last week’s game, and I don’t want you to worry about this week’s game (at Nebraska). All we ask of you today is give me 100% of your efforts and your focus. Not tomorrow, but today. Everything you got – can you do that for me?’ ” Unglaub said.

“Every day before practice, including before the kickoff at Nebraska, he asked for our commitment of giving 100%.”

It worked.

FSU beat Nebraska 18-14 in Lincoln, Nebraska, to start a seven-game win streak. The Seminoles finished the season 10-2, losing to Oklahoma in the Orange Bowl.

Bowden's coaching style never wavered. Andrews – the first winner of the Frank Broyles Award as the country's top assistant coach in 1996 – credited Bowden for making his time at FSU so special.

"He encouraged people to be their best," said Andrews, a scheduled speaker at Bowden's funeral at the Tucker Civic Center Saturday. 

Services for Bobby Bowden 

Friday

10-1 p.m.:  Coach Bowden will Lie In Honor at Florida Historic Capitol Museum at the old Capitol (third floor). Open to the public. 

2-7 p.m.: Coach Bowden will Lie In Repose in the Moore Athletics Center, located at Doak Campbell Stadium, off Stadium Drive. Open to the public.

Saturday

11 a.m.: Funeral Service for Coach Bowden at the Tucker Civic Center at FSU - open to the public with doors opening at 9:30 a.m. Will be streamed at Seminoles.com.

Sunday

4-6 p.m. Coach Bowden will Lie in Repose at the Reid Chapel on the campus of Samford University. Open to the public.

Family-only burial service to follow in Trussville, Alabama.

Reach Jim Henry at jjhenry@tallahassee.com.