HARRIS, Mich. (UCFKnights.com) – Head coach Todd Dagenais has been tabbed as one of the 10 inductees to the Upper Peninsula Sports Hall of Fame.
Dagenais, who wrapped up his 11th season at UCF in 2018, holds a career record of 212-140 (.660), all during his time in Orlando. Already the winningest Division I coach in program history, he is 25 victories away from breaking the all-time program record of 236 wins.
“I remember walking through the Hall of Fame as a young boy – there were pictures in front of plaques of MLB, NFL and NBA standouts. It didn’t even cross my mind that I would accomplish anything worthy of being associated with this amazing group of sportsmen and women,” Dagenais said. “I thank all of those who nominated and voted me in. I’m truly shocked; I had no idea I was even on the board to be considered. I congratulated the other nine inductees, especially my good friend John Barnes who I have always felt a special connection to as we forged our careers in the unyielding world of college athletics.
“This honor couldn’t possibly be realized without the help of my forgiving and supportive family, relentless mentors who pushed me to the point of breaking, the visionary administration, drive players and hardworking staff members and student-athletes I have had the privilege to work alongside each and every day of my career. I owe them all a debt that can never be repaid.”
Dagenais led the Black and Gold to one of the best seasons in program history in 2018. UCF went 27-4 with a perfect 18-0 mark in the American Athletic Conference to secure its second league title in five seasons. The Knights posted their longest winning streak as an NCAA Division I program with 24 straight to close the regular season.
A two-time Coach of the Year in The American, Dagenais has helped transform the Knights into a nationally recognized program. During his tenure, he has mentored nine AVCA All-America selections, 12 AVCA All-Southeastern Region picks, one American Athletic Conference Player of the Year and 19 All-Conference picks in The American.
The 49th annual induction banquet will be held in May 2020.
UCF returns to the court on Aug. 30 for a tournament at Ole Miss. The Knights return five starters, including AVCA All-American and American Athletic Conference Freshman of the Year McKenna Melville.