Cole Named to Tiffin University Athletic Hall of Fame

Edison State Community College Athletic Director Nate Cole has been named a Hall Of Fame honoree for his time spent as Tiffin University's (TU) head football coach. Cole will be one of five NCAA Division II coaches and athletes to join the 2017 Hall of Fame Class. 

"I am very humbled to receive this honor," said Cole. "Tiffin University is a very special place to me." 

According to TU's website, "these honorees have made tremendous contributions to TU athletics. They have made their mark both individually and for the university with their commitment, energy, talents, and dedication - setting the high standards for which other athletes can aim." 

Cole's strong leadership stems from his time spent on the field. A 1991 graduate of Allen East High School, Cole earned All-Northwest Conference (NWC) honors under Ohio High School Football Coaches Hall of Fame member, Bill Goodwin. 

Following high school, Cole became a four-year football letterman recipient, playing tight end on two of TU's playoff teams. After graduating from TU, Cole served as an assistant coach before gaining the role of head coach. 

As TU's head football coach from 2003-07, Cole holds a career winning percentage mark of .655, going 36-19. He was named three-time Coach of the Year, earning NCAA National Independent Coach of the Year in 2004, D2Football.com Independent Coach of the Year in 2006, and Great Lake Football Conference (GLFC) Coach of the Year in 2007. 

Cole was responsible for leading the Dragon football team to two GLFC titles (2006, 2007) including a school-record 10-1 season in 2006. He coached players garnering two All-American and 10 NCAA All-Region picks, including NFL standout Nate Washington. 

"I would not have been able to accomplish anything without all of the fantastic student-athletes, coaches, and staff that were a big part of our success," said Cole. "I thank them all." 

In just his third year as Edison State's Athletic Director, Cole has made monumental strides. Cole oversees all athletic and student life functions including a coaching staff of over ten and 100 student-athletes. On his watch, Edison State athletic offerings have expanded to include NJCAA baseball and softball. 

Originally from Westminster, Ohio, Cole along with his wife, Amy, son, Cooper, and daughter, Taylor, currently reside in Lewisburg, Ohio. Nate is the son of Rex and Sharon Cole. 

Held in conjunction with homecoming weekend, the 2017 Hall of Fame Class will be honored on September 29 at the Heminger Center on the campus of Tiffin University in Tiffin, Ohio.