Wall of Fame
Back To Hall of Fame
Back To Hall of Fame
Athlete: 1920-22
Coach: 1939-60
Floyd H. Gautsch, a native of La Crosse, participated in football, track and swimming while a student at the two-year La Crosse Normal School during 1921-22. He graduated from La Crosse State Teachers College with a bachelor's degree in physical education in 1933. He began his 30-year coaching career in 1939, at La Crosse State Teachers College, serving as head coach in track, cross country and basketball and as assistant football coach.
Gautsch was named athletic directer in 1947 and continued in that position until his retirement in 1969. Gautsch is recognized for spearheading the steady growth of athletics and expanding the program of football, basketball, track and baseball to include golf, tennis, wrestling, gymnastics, cross country and swimming.
During his coaching career, Gautsch led La Crosse squads to five track conference titles and a cross country championship in 1968. Gautsch's professional achievements include the District 14 championship for the NAIA for five years. He was the recipient of the NAIA Award of Merit for distinguished service to that organization and was accorded District 14 Coach of the Year honors in cross country in 1968.
Other activities were membership in the American Amateur Association Committee for distance runners, the National Coaches Association and the presidency, on three separate occasions, of the university conference.
Gautsch also earned an M.A. degree from the University of Northern Colorado, Directors Degree Physical Education/Athletic Director University of Indiana.
Back To Hall of Fame
