Hall of Honor
Whether the arena was the classroom, football field, swimming pool, or tennis court, Bob Nicholls’ dedication to and affection for Beloit College’s student athletics was unmatched. A native of Nagaunee, Michigan, “Coach Nick” was an outstanding quarterback at UW – La Crosse and an Army veteran before arriving here in 1952 with the experience and desire to make a difference. This soft-spoken mentor wore many athletic hats during his 43-year tenure, serving as head coach of men and women’s swimming, men’s tennis and wrestling, and assistant for freshman basketball. In 1976 he stepped down from his position as Athletic Director to become head football coach. In coaching more than 3,000 Buccaneer athletes and logging thousands of miles on busses and cars traveling to sporting events, “Coach Nick” not only taught proper techniques and values but also was an influential role model. The coaching legacy of Bob Nicholls isn’t measured in team and individual championships; rather, more than his coaching, it was his manner, sense of sportsmanship and competitive pride that make him an inspirational leader. Likewise, it was Coach Nick’s ability to relate to athletes as individuals and his degree of commitment that helped student athletes succeed in their sports, the classroom, and post-college life. His peers in the College Swimming Coaches Association of America also recognized his many achievements when, in 1973, they named him a Master Coach.
