Buddy Teevens was one of the legendary figures in the college football world. Beyond his coaching legacy, he was known for his efforts in player safety. Netflix is set to release a documentary, “The Buddy Way,” which reflects his astounding career as an Ivy League icon, celebrating his victories on the gridiron and his remarkable influence on the sport and its players.
Netflix To Release Documentary on Buddy Teevens
Eugene Francis “Buddy” Teevens was born on Oct. 1, 1956, in Pembroke, Massachusetts. He was an extraordinary athlete in his young days.
At Dartmouth, he played for the Big Green football team. He was deemed one of the greatest school athletes after he led his college to the Ivy League championship.
After graduating, Teevens started his coaching career and became the head coach of his alma mater in 1987.
Buddy transformed the Dartmouth team in his tenures (1987-1991 and 2005-2022) and became the most successful coach in Ivy League history, winning five titles. His coaching style was unique and promoted integrity, teamwork, and personal growth.
Pioneer in Player Safety Innovation
Teevens was always concerned for player safety. He was worried about the long-term effects of serious head injuries and advocated for full-time contract practices. Under his coaching, Dartmouth was the first team to exclude live tackling in practices. This became a visionary move in college football history.
He supported the development of robotic tackling machines to ensure the players practice tackling moves while eliminating injury risk. This practice was praised at every level and recognized by other leagues, too.
Unfortunately, Teevens was involved in a tragic bicycle accident in March 2023 and lost his right leg. Despite the pervasive treatment, he passed away on Sept. 19, 2023, at the age of 66. His death was a blow to the football world.
The Buddy Way: A Netflix Documentary
NFL legend Peyton Manning will produce a Netflix Documentary called “The Buddy Way,” with Rory Karpf directing it. The documentary will explore the legendary life of Teevens, from his initial days in Massachusetts to his legendary coaching career.
It will also show the core of his character — a man of innovation, principle, discipline, and immeasurable compassion. The film’s interviews of family members, former players, and teammates flaunt the impression of Buddy on and off the field.
KEEP READING: List of FBS College Football National Champions by Year
Additionally, the documentary will feature:
- Teevens’ crucial role in remolding Dartmouth football into a championship program.
- Heartly tributes from the former players inspired by his mentorship and visionary ideas.
- Teevens’ advocacy for player safety and the introduction of robotic tackling technology.
Teevens was a leader, a pioneer, and a true protector of players’ health. “The Buddy Way” serves as a tribute to the legendary man who left an enduring mark in the football world. The football world always endures Teevens’s legacy.
College Football Network has you covered with the latest from the ACC, Big Ten, Big 12, SEC, and every Group of Five conference and FBS Independent program.
