Joe Aillet

Joseph Roguet Aillet (born Joseph Fuourka, September 13, 1904 – December 28, 1971) was an American football and basketball coach and college athletics administrator. He served as the head football coach at Louisiana Tech University from 1940 to 1966, compiling a record of 151–86–8. Additionally, under Aillet, the Bulldogs won nine conference championships. He was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 1989. Joe Aillet Stadium, the home of the Louisiana Tech football team, was dedicated in Aillet's honor in 1972.

Early life and education Childhood Aillet was brought in 1905 from the New York Foundling in New York City to Opelousas in St. Landry Parish, Louisiana, on an Orphan Train. Upon arriving at Youngsville on the orphan train, Father Johanni Roguet, the priest at St. Ann's Catholic Church, claimed the child. Since the priest could not legally adopt a child, he handed over the responsibilities of raising the baby to a widow named Eliza Aillet. From these two individuals, Joseph Fuourka was renamed Joseph Roguet Aillet.

Education Aillet entered Holy Cross High School in New Orleans as a boarding student in sixth grade. During his high school years he played football, basketball, baseball, and track. He was also a member of the Dramatics Club and served as vice-president of the Class of 1923 and held leadership positions in nearly every school society. After graduating in 1923 he attended St. Edward's University in Austin, Texas. While at St. Edward's, Aillet played quarterback

Aillet was backfield coach at Louisiana Normal for four years.

Death On December 28, 1971, Aillet died of cancer at age 67.

Recognition Aillet is a member of the Louisiana Tech Athletic Hall of Fame, Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame, Holy Cross School Hall of Fame, College Football Hall of Fame, and the NAIA Hall of Fame.

Head coaching record Football