MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — Donnie Young, who spent more than 40 years working with the West Virginia football program in a variety of capacities, died on Tuesday, family members announced on social media.
The Clendenin, W.Va. native worked for the Mountaineers from 1970-2012, starting his career under Bobby Bowden and continuing in a variety of roles until he retired during Dana Holgorsen’s tenure.
Young coached the West Virginia freshman team in 1970, the penultimate season before freshmen were allowed to play at the varsity level. Bowden promoted him to linebackers coach in 1971, and Young stayed on through Frank Cignetti’s tenure, including a year as defensive coordinator in 1977.