Purchase my new book: It’s the right thing to do

By TOM SHANAHAN My latest book on college football integration is available to pre-order. THE RIGHT THING TO DO The True Pioneers of College Football Integration in the 1960s Foreword by Ruffin McNeill Click here for summary and to purchase from August Publications:     *** As I said when I was invited to speak at the National Sports Media Association book festival on June 23 in Winston-Salem, no two books better tell an accurate story about college football…

Continue ReadingPurchase my new book: It’s the right thing to do

A look back at Harlon Barnett’s move five years ago based on his desire to be a head coach

PHOTO (Michigan State): Harlon Barnett addressing the media on Tuesday upon being named Michigan State's acting head coach. Visit my website home page, TomShanahan.Report NOTE: Five years ago, during the ACC football media days, I wrote a story for the Detroit Free Press on Michigan State alumnus Harlon Barnett's lateral move to Florida State upon leaving MSU's staff under Mark Dantonio. The move didn't work out under then-Florida State head coach Willie Taggart, but this is a good…

Continue ReadingA look back at Harlon Barnett’s move five years ago based on his desire to be a head coach

Speech from Gideon Smith’s grandson at Ferris State Hall of Fame enshrinement

PHOTO (Ferris State): John Belcher and Ferris State athletic director Steve Brockelbank. Visit my website homepage, TomShanahan.Report *** Below is the speech John Belcher, grandson of Gideon Smith, delivered on behalf of his late grandfather at the Ferris State Hall of Fame enshrinement on August 30, 2023, in Big Rapids, Michigan. Gideon Smith journeyed from segregated Viriginia to Ferris in 1910 and was the school's first Black football player. He was among the Black students Ferris founder Woodbridge…

Continue ReadingSpeech from Gideon Smith’s grandson at Ferris State Hall of Fame enshrinement