The recent victory of the Indiana Hoosiers in the NCAA football championship has stirred unexpected excitement among alumni of the Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP). The celebration stems from a shared connection to head coach Curt Cignetti, who previously led IUP’s football program before guiding Indiana University to its first national title on January 8, 2024.
Cignetti’s journey began in 2011 when he took his first head coaching position at IUP, where he amassed a commendable record of 53 wins and 17 losses over six seasons. His success at IUP and the legacy of his father, Frank Cignetti Sr., who coached the team for 20 years, has created a strong bond between the two institutions, despite their lack of official affiliation.
During a post-game interview, Cignetti reflected on his time at IUP, stating, “Back when I was waxing the staff table at IUP, did I ever think something like this was possible? Probably not. But if you keep your nose down in life and keep working, anything is possible.” This sentiment resonated with many IUP alumni who took to social media to express their pride in Cignetti’s achievements.
Alumni such as Seth Woolcock shared their enthusiasm, noting, “My freshman year at IUP was Curt Cignetti’s final season coaching our D2 football program. Watching him take IU to the Natty is the greatest sports feat of my lifetime.” This pride reflects a broader sentiment among IUP alumni, many of whom feel represented on college football’s biggest stage.
Cignetti’s influence extends beyond his tenure at IUP. Two of his assistants from Indiana—offensive coordinator Michael Shanahan and defensive coordinator Bryant Haines—also have ties to IUP, further strengthening the connection. Although there is no formal relationship between IUP and Indiana University, the shared history and achievements have inspired a sense of camaraderie and celebration among Crimson Hawk supporters.
The excitement was not limited to alumni, as IUP’s official social media accounts congratulated Cignetti and the Hoosiers, stating, “Congratulations Coach Curt Cignetti and the Indiana Hoosiers! We are so proud to be a part of your story!” This public recognition highlights the pride IUP takes in its former coach’s accomplishments on a national level.
Interestingly, the connection between IUP and the championship game extends to Miami as well. Dan Radakovich, Miami’s athletic director, is also an IUP alumnus, further intertwining the narratives of both teams. This shared history illustrates the far-reaching impact of college athletics and how they can resonate across different institutions.
As Indiana University celebrates its championship victory, the IUP community reflects on its own legacy and connection to this historic moment. The celebration is not just about football; it symbolizes the enduring bonds formed through shared experiences and achievements. For many at IUP, the triumph of the Hoosiers is a testament to hard work, dedication, and the powerful stories that connect sports communities across the nation.
