June Jones, Influential College Football Coach, Passes Away at 73

June Jones, known for his profound impact on college football, has died at the age of 73. His passing was confirmed by the University of Hawai’i, where he made significant contributions as head coach from 1999 to 2007. Jones had been in hospice care for two weeks prior, as reported by the Honolulu Star-Advertiser.

Jones played quarterback for the Rainbow Warriors at the University of Hawai’i before coaching there. He played an essential role in shaping the future of Timmy Chang, Hawai’i’s current head coach and former NCAA all-time passing yards leader under Jones’s guidance. Reflecting on Jones’s passing, Chang expressed deep sorrow and highlighted Jones’s influence, describing him as a father figure and mentor. He credited Jones with revolutionizing the game and providing him an unparalleled opportunity to lead the offense.

Jones’s legacy extends beyond his coaching record. Chang emphasized that Jones was pivotal in putting Hawai’i football on the map, inspiring all with his passion and dedication. The heartfelt condolences shared by Chang extended to Jones’s family and everyone impacted by his leadership.

Jones’s own football journey started at Hawai’i, Portland State, and Oregon, leading to a stint with the Atlanta Falcons as an undrafted free agent. During his NFL career, he played backup quarterback to Steve Bartkowski and started five games.

Transitioning from his playing career, Jones quickly began coaching, eventually becoming the head coach of the Falcons from 1994-96. He served as interim head coach for the San Diego Chargers in 1998 before returning to Hawai’i. Under his leadership, the Rainbow Warriors achieved conference titles in 1999 and 2007. The latter year was historic, concluding with a 12-0 season and the school’s first BCS bowl game appearance at the Sugar Bowl.

“The 2007 season and making the Sugar Bowl surpassed all expectations,” recalled Honolulu Mayor Rick Blangiardi, a former Rainbow Warriors player and assistant coach. Blangiardi emphasized Jones’s unique coaching style and significant contribution to the team’s success, including a memorable comeback victory against the University of Washington.

Following his remarkable tenure with Hawai’i, Jones continued his coaching career at SMU from 2008 to 2014 and later participated in coaching stints in the USFL and CFL.

The sports community mourns the loss of a coaching legend whose legacy will undoubtedly endure.