Middle Tennessee State University Athletics
Hall of Fame
James "Boots" Donnelly
- Induction:
- 1993
- Class:
- 1965
If James F. "Boots" Donnelly had a mantra, it would be "hard work brings success." It's a philosophy he applies in his personal, athletic and coaching lives. An MT defensive back during three winning seasons under Coach Charles "Bubber" Murphy in the 1960s, Donnelly honed his coaching craft at Father Ryan High School and Vanderbilt University in Nashville and Austin Peay in Clarksville, Tenn. As head football coach at MT from 1979-98, his 140-87-1 record led to multiple accolades and repeated OVC championships.
As AD, Donnelly took Blue Raider football to prominence in its early I-A years. He also spearheaded improvements to MT's athletic complex, including renovation of the tennis facilities and construction of the women's basketball locker room as well as renovation of the Alumni Gym and the securing of $1.5 million for the Rose and Emmett Kennon Blue Raider Hall of Fame.
As AD, Donnelly took Blue Raider football to prominence in its early I-A years. He also spearheaded improvements to MT's athletic complex, including renovation of the tennis facilities and construction of the women's basketball locker room as well as renovation of the Alumni Gym and the securing of $1.5 million for the Rose and Emmett Kennon Blue Raider Hall of Fame.
Blue Raider Breakdown Postgame Show - October 8th
Thursday, October 09
MTSU Football vs. Missouri State post-game press conference – 10/8/25
Thursday, October 09
MTSU Football vs. Missouri State post-game press conference – 10/8/25
Wednesday, October 08
Middle Made Moments - MTSU Volleyball clean sweep - October 7th
Tuesday, October 07
