Cole Willging

Coleman G. Willging (August 14, 1911 – March 10, 1973) was an American football end who played one season in the National Football League (NFL) for the Cincinnati Reds. He also played in the Midwest Football League and AFL III as a member of the Cincinnati Models and Bengals. He was assistant coach of the Models from 1936 to 1937.

Early life and education Willging was born on August 14, 1911, in Norwood, Ohio. He attended Norwood High School in the late 1920s, where he was an all-state tackle. In 1930 he joined Xavier University, playing for their freshman team. He would play for their varsity team from 1931 to 1933, earning a varsity letter in his final two years. It would be his only NFL season, as the Reds forfeited their franchise near the end of the season. After the year he would join the Cincinnati Models of the Midwest Football League, appearing in 12 games over three seasons. He was named All-MWFL in 1937, after helping his team reach the league championship serving as starting guard/tackle and assistant coach. Willging died on March 10, 1973, at the age of 61, following a heart attack.