The Legacy of Buddy Teevens: More Than Just a Coach

Peyton Manning's recently released documentary, "The Buddy Way," sheds light on the remarkable impact Buddy Teevens had on his life and the football community at large. Premiering on January 29 at 5 p.m. ET on ESPN2, the documentary reveals heartfelt anecdotes that showcase Buddy's unique approach to coaching, mentorship, and life.

Growing up, I was fortunate to cross paths with Buddy Teevens, a man who's often defined by his genuine nature and commitment to the people around him. Unlike any coach I've known, he had an innate ability to listen and connect, making everyone feel valued from the moment they met him. His infectious energy was undeniable, a testament to the magnetic pull he had on those who were lucky enough to know him.

In 1992, when my father Archie Manning was training at Tulane University, he encountered Buddy Teevens for the first time. Despite the language barrier created by Buddy's quick speech and endearing Boston accent, they bonded over a love for football and family. This encounter marked the beginning of a lifelong friendship that would shape the lives of many.

As I entered the recruiting phase in high school, I had my sights set on Tennessee, yet I quickly recognized Buddy’s talent as a coach. His summer camp at Tulane in 1993 left a lasting impression. I remember running the 40-yard dash — a daunting task for someone like myself. With a keen sense of humor, Buddy took the responsibility for calling my time: "Peyton Manning, 40 yard dash, 4.99." He lightened the mood, showing that coaching extends beyond strategy and drills.

Buddy wasn't just a coach; he was a man who took care of his players and their families. During in-home visits from other college coaches, while many drew up plays on my mother's fine linen napkins, Buddy was the only one willing to help her in the kitchen.

In 1996, we established the Manning Passing Academy, a place where we teach young athletes the fundamentals of football. It was Hughes who was my father's first call. Even as Buddy moved to different positions in his coaching career, he consistently returned to support us, affirming the philosophy that family comes first.

Every summer, our camp grew from 185 attendees to over 1,400, with Buddy’s guiding philosophy of "Adjust and Improvise" threading every experience together. Whether we faced inclement weather or logistical challenges, he ensured that training continued. His mantra became our camp's lifeblood.

Beyond the accolades — leading Dartmouth to five Ivy League titles — Buddy's innovations in coaching had far-reaching effects. He introduced groundbreaking practices, like eliminating tackling in routines, instead developing a revolutionary robotic tackling dummy, showcasing his forward-thinking mindset. In 2018, he made history by hiring Callie Brownson, the first female full-time coach in Division I football, further diversifying the coaching ranks and proving his belief in untapped potential.

Buddy Teevens' impact on football transcends the field; it lies in the relationships he built, the lives he touched, and the game-changing practices he implemented. He was not just a coach but a beacon of kindness and an architect of a progressive culture in sports. That is the legacy of "The Buddy Way."