Legendary Cedar Falls High School Football Coach Steps Down After 47 Years

When Cedar Falls opens the high school football season next month, it'll mark the first time since 1967 that Pat Mitchell won't be roaming the sideline. The Tigers' coach has announced his retirement, citing health issues.

Mitchell was diagnosed with prostate cancer in January. The 74-year-old says, at times, he can't walk or stand without feeling some discomfort, so it'll be hard to continue coaching.

Mitchell leaves the Tigers' sideline as the fourth winningest football coach in Iowa high school history, ending his career with an all-time record of 344-138-1.

Cedar Falls made 25 state playoff appearances under Mitchell's guidance and advanced to the Class-4A championship game five times. The Tigers won their only state title in 1986. They finished second in 1982, 1999, 2005 and 2008.

While Mitchell is stepping away from his normal coaching duties at Cedar Falls, he'll still be involved in the program as a consultant. He plans to attend meetings and review video, among other things.

With Mitchell's retirement, Brad Remmert is taking over as the Tigers' new head coach. Remmert has been around the program for 19 years. He has served as co-head coach at Cedar Falls – alongside Mitchell – since 2006.

The Tigers' first game in 47 years without Mitchell roaming the sideline will be their season opener at Iowa City High on August 29th.