Success in college athletics, no matter the task, always centers on great relationships, and nobody knew that better than Larry Wahl, the longtime head of communications at the Capital One Orange Bowl. Wahl left us way too soon, passing away March 3 after battling blood cancer since 2018. He was 67.
 
"One can't say enough nice things about Larry Wahl," said NFF President & CEO Steve Hatchell, who was the executive director of the Orange Bowl from 1987-93. "He was a terrific friend who was always there when you needed him. When he came to UofM, and I was at the Orange Bowl, we shared a lot together, including all the issues related to Hurricane Andrew. It's just sad to see him pass away because he was just such a wonderful guy and a true professional."
 
A graduate of the University of Pennsylvania, who then earned a master's degree in sports administration from Ohio University, Wahl headed media relations for the New York Yankees and George Steinbrenner in the late 70s and early 80s. He eventually made his way to South Florida, including a stint at the University of Miami from 1988 to 1997 as a senior athletics director during three of national titles. In 2007, he joined the Orange Bowl as vice president for communications.
 
While at the Orange Bowl, Wahl worked closely with the Football Writers Association of America (FWAA) on numerous projects, including the media operations during the Bowl Championship Series and now the College Football Playoffs. He also played a pivotal role in the Capital One Orange Bowl-FWAA Courage Award.
 
"Larry was a real icon in the bowl industry," said FWAA Executive Director Steve Richardson. "He was a great guy to work with, and he was a real champion of the needs of the media. He was always excellent at getting things done. He really embraced the Courage Award, announcing the nominees weekly during the season and the winner on field on the night of the Orange Bowl Game.
 
"Larry had a great personality, and he knew all the ins and outs. You could always call him, and he would tell you everything you needed to know. He was excellent with the media and developing relationships. He will very much be missed."