Board considers naming football field for legendary coach

MANAWA – The Manawa Board of Education is considering a proposal to name the district’s football field after legendary coach Bob Lieberman.

The board reviewed a formal request during its June 29 meeting to christen the facility “Bob Lieberman Field.” The request was submitted in a June 18 letter by Manawa Athletic Hall of Fame Committee member Mike Frazier, who is also the mayor.

According to the Wisconsin Sports Network, Lieberman began his teaching and coaching career in Monroe, Wisconsin, in 1965, before moving to Manawa in 1968. He served as Manawa’s head football coach for 31 years.

Under his leadership, the Manawa football program was a dominant force. The Wisconsin Football Coaches Association (WFCA) credits him with a 213-76-5 record during his tenure at Manawa. His resume includes a State Championship in 1985, 16 Central Wisconsin Conference Championships and three unbeaten teams.

Beyond football, Lieberman served as Manawa’s head track coach for 23 years, producing three individual state champions, including a state record holder, and nine state runner-ups. He was also the head basketball coach for four years and coached summer baseball.

After retiring from Manawa in 1999, he continued his coaching career as the defensive coordinator at Lawrence University. His athletic achievements have earned him inductions into the WFCA Hall of Fame, the Winona State Hall of Fame, and the Manawa Athletic Hall of Fame.

Frazier’s letter noted that Lieberman was a leader both on and off the field.

“The values that he taught included hard work does pay off, respect for others, how important your faith is in everyday life, and to never forget your roots,” Frazier wrote.

He said Lieberman inspired and encouraged two of his former student athletes to play football at the next level and both became teachers and coaches, and were also inducted into the WFCA Hall of Fame.

Outside the school district, Lieberman was a charter member of the Manawa Jaycees, a past Cubmaster for the local Cub Scouts and actively served Zion Lutheran Church as a council member, reader, and treasurer.

“Personally, I think of Coach Bob Lieberman as one of the most outstanding individuals I’ve ever had the pleasure of knowing,” Frazier said. “Bob not only raised a wonderful family in Manawa, but has been active in his community and church.”

The school board’s next step is to form an ad hoc committee of board members and community stakeholders to review the football field naming proposal. After the committee completes its review, the school board will vote on whether to approve the proposal.