American Heart Association Unveils 2024 Paul 'Bear' Bryant Coach of the Year Award Watch List

The American Heart Association has released its 2024 watch list for the Paul 'Bear' Bryant Coach of the Year Award, spotlighting 27 college football coaches who exemplify leadership and integrity in their profession. This prestigious accolade, now in its 39th year, not only honors coaching excellence but also serves as a platform to raise awareness and funds for cardiovascular disease and stroke research.

The watch list encompasses coaches from major conferences including the Atlantic Coast Conference, Big Ten, Big 12, and Southeastern Conference, as well as representatives from Group of Five conferences and independent teams. Notable names on the list include Dabo Swinney of Clemson University, Ryan Day of Ohio State University, and Kirby Smart of the University of Georgia, among other prominent figures in college football.

This year's award ceremony, scheduled for January 22, 2025, in Houston, will also recognize Grant Teaff with the Lifetime Achievement Award and Mark Richt with the Heart of a Champion award. These additional honors underscore the award's commitment to celebrating long-term contributions to the sport and personal character.

The Paul 'Bear' Bryant Awards, presented in partnership with Marathon Oil Corporation, go beyond recognizing athletic achievement. They play a crucial role in the American Heart Association's mission to combat cardiovascular disease and stroke, the leading causes of death globally. By linking the legacy of legendary coach Bear Bryant, who died of a heart attack in 1983, to current coaching excellence, the awards create a powerful narrative connecting sports achievement with health awareness.

For the college football community and health advocates alike, this watch list announcement signals the start of a season-long conversation about leadership, integrity, and health. It highlights the potential for sports figures to influence public health awareness and underscores the importance of cardiovascular research in improving and saving lives. As the season progresses, these coaches' performances both on and off the field will be closely watched, not just for their team's success, but for their broader impact on the sport and society.