BEAUMONT, Texas – Former Lamar University assistant football coach Dave Beckman passed away Thursday at the age of 81. A beloved figure in the Golden Triangle during his short time with the Cardinals, LU won nine games during his two seasons on campus including a 6-3-2 mark in 1979. The Cardinals led the nation in passing during Beckman's time on campus.
 
Following his stint with the Red and White, Beckman left the collegiate ranks to work in professional football – both NFL and Canadian. He served as the Director of Player Personnel for the both the Cleveland Browns and the San Diego Chargers. Beckman was named as the head coach of the Hamilton Tiger Cats of the Canadian Football League (1990-92).
 
In 2006, Beckman was inducted in the Bellevue High School Hall of Fame. A 1956 graduate of Bellevue, Beckman earned 10 varsity letters during his high school career. He was able to turn that athletic ability into a successful playing-coaching career at Baldwin-Wallace College.
 
Following his time in professional football, Beckman returned to the collegiate level where he worked on the administrative side at Cleveland State. Serving as the director of athletics development, Beckman oversaw two National Championships for CSU – women's volleyball and men's wrestling.
 
While at BHS, Beckman was named All-Northern Ohio League in football as a junior and a senior. The all-conference performer was also a standout on the track and field team setting or tying school records in the 180-yard low hurdles and as a member of the 880-yard relay team. He was a key figure in helping lead BHS to consecutive NOL track and field titles.
 
In all, Beckman received four letters in football and track and field, and two in basketball. He wrapped up his high school career as the Gazette Award winner as the most valuable male athlete.