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.
MTSU Women's Basketball Postgame Press Conference vs Missouri State on 3/07/26
Saturday, March 07
MT Women's Basketball | Together: Episode Eleven | Visualize Yourself
Friday, March 06
MTSU Women's Basketball Postgame Press Conference vs FIU on 3/05/26
Thursday, March 05
WTEN: Middle Tennessee vs LA Tech
Wednesday, March 04
