Cal State LA Athletics

 The father of Cal State L.A. football, Leonard “Bud” Adams started the University’s football program in 1951, at a time when other colleges were dropping the sport.

He served as Cal State L.A.’s head coach for 12 years – the longest tenure in University history – and compiled a 41-61-5 record while finishing as high as second in the California Collegiate Athletic Association.

Eight of Adams’ players won All-America honors, and two others were Academic All-Americans. Seven played professionally.

When he stepped down as football coach, Adams took over Cal State L.A.’s bowling program. He had 20 straight winning seasons, and his 1976 women’s team finished second in the nation. His teams won conference championships and high national rankings year in and year out.