Former The Citadel football player and head coach Tom Moore passed away Wednesday at his home in Charleston at the age of 81.
Moore, a three-year letterman for the Bulldogs from 1964-66, later returned to guide the program as head coach from 1983-86. He began his collegiate playing career under head coach Eddie Teague before Red Parker took over in his final season.
Moore earned All-Southern Conference honors as a split end and served as team captain during his senior year. He was also a political science major and 1st Lt. in the South Carolina Corps of Cadets before serving four years in the United States Air Force, retiring as a captain.
Coaching Career
Moore began his coaching career at Aurora High School in Colorado in 1967 before moving to the collegiate ranks. He served as an assistant coach at Wichita State from 1968-70 and at Clemson from 1971-78.
He then became head coach at Gardner-Webb University, leading the Runnin’ Bulldogs from 1979-82 with a 17-24 record.
Returning to his alma mater, Moore led The Citadel from 1983-86, compiling an 18-25-1 overall record and a 7-18-1 mark in Southern Conference play. His most successful season came in 1980, when he guided the team to a 7-4 record, including 4-2 in conference play.
Legacy and Community Service
Current Citadel head coach Maurice Drayton praised Moore’s impact: “Coach Moore consistently poured wisdom into me… His leadership, humility and unwavering commitment to developing young men will forever leave a lasting impact.”
Off the field, Moore was active in his community and faith. He served as president of a local Christian nonprofit, was vice president and board member of the South Carolina Better Business Bureau, and was a devoted member of St. Philip’s Church.
Family
Moore is survived by his wife, Tricia Smith Moore; his sister, Nancy Sroka; daughter Ashley King; son Rhett Moore and wife Leslie; stepson Christopher McEniry and wife Kim; and grandchildren Travis, Ava, Cameron, Lexie, Clair, and Louisa.
