Park University (MO)

Often tabbed the "godfather" and "founder" of athletics at then-Park College, Nelson coached nearly every sport the Pirates offered in his 18-year tenure and served as the institutions director of athletics. Nelson is responsible for the Pirates joining the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) in 1961, and in addition to his athletics duties, Nelson served as Park's Dean of Men from 1963 to 1967. He also taught physical education through his entire Park tenure. Nelson passed away in 2008. Nelson, a graduate of William Jewell College, was married for 53 years, and in his high school days, he was a member of National Honor society as well as all-city selection at East High School in basketball. While at Park, Nelson coached golf, tennis, soccer, baseball and basketball, but it's his work as director of athletics, leading Park in to the NAIA, that left a lasting mark on what is now one of Park University's greatest points of pride, its successful athletics program, on the court and in the classroom.