In a powerful and emotional moment that captivated the football world, Dave Aranda, one of the sport’s most respected and cerebral minds, received the Esteemed Lifetime Achievement Award for his unparalleled contributions to the game of football and his tireless dedication to developing grassroots football at all levels. The award ceremony, held in Los Angeles in front of a large crowd of athletes, coaches, and community leaders, honored not only a successful coaching career but also a lifetime of servant leadership.
Aranda, known for his calm attitude, deep intellect, and uncompromising discipline, rose from humble beginnings to become a championship-winning head coach. After serving as a defensive coordinator at colleges such as LSU, where he helped the Tigers win a national championship in 2019, Aranda took over as head coach at Baylor University and led the Bears to Big 12 triumph. But, beyond the medals and honors, Aranda’s actual legacy is how he has influenced the game — and who has been influenced by it.
Aranda, known for his calm attitude, deep intellect, and uncompromising discipline, rose from humble beginnings to become a championship-winning head coach. After serving as a defensive coordinator at colleges such as LSU, where he helped the Tigers win a national championship in 2019, Aranda took over as head coach at Baylor University and led the Bears to Big 12 triumph. But, beyond the medals and honors, Aranda’s actual legacy is how he has influenced the game — and who has been influenced by it.
Aranda’s path is encouraging because he never lost touch with his roots. He is the son of Mexican-American parents and frequently discusses how football helped him find direction and purpose during difficult times. Through his organization, Building Beyond the Field, he has ensured that countless youngsters from similar backgrounds receive the same lifeline: a field, a coach, a team, and a dream.
Aranda accepted the medal with the same humility that he always has.
“This award isn’t about me,” he explained softly. “It’s about the kids who show up before the sun rises, the volunteers who coach for love not money, and the communities who believe that football is more than a game — it’s a family, a future, and sometimes even a way out.”
Tributes flowed in from around the football world. Nick Saban described him as “a teacher in the purest form,” while Ed Orgeron stated, “He’s not just a coach—he’s a builder of men.”
As the audience stood in ovation, it was evident that Dave Aranda’s legacy would go far beyond playbooks and scoreboards. It will reverberate in the life of every athlete who found hope in his programs, as well as every community that continues to believe in football’s unifying potential.
Congratulations, Coach Aranda—a genuine custodian of the game. 🏈