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.
Derek Mason LIVE: Presented by The Boulevard Bar & Grille Week 13 (Video)
Monday, November 17
Blue Raider Notebook Presented by TOA - November 17th
Monday, November 17
MTSU Football Weekly Presser 11/17/25
Monday, November 17
MTSU Football at WKU post-game press conference – 11/15/25
Sunday, November 16
