MOUNTAINEERS PRIDE: “The Don Legacy” — A Gripping Portrait of a Gridiron Giant
In a move that has stirred excitement across college football fandom, Netflix has announced the release date of Mountaineers Pride: “The Don Legacy”, a riveting documentary chronicling the life and legendary career of Don Nehlen, the iconic former head coach of the West Virginia University (WVU) Mountaineers. The documentary is set to premiere on July 19, 2025, and promises an emotional, inspiring, and insightful look into the man who transformed WVU football into a nationally respected program.
Don Nehlen, a native of Canton, Ohio, took over as head coach of WVU in 1980 and helmed the team for 21 seasons, amassing a record of 149-93-4. Under his guidance, the Mountaineers reached unprecedented heights, including two undefeated regular seasons (1988 and 1993), multiple bowl game appearances, and a reputation for grit, discipline, and pride. Nehlen’s legacy is deeply woven into the fabric of West Virginia, and this documentary seeks to honor not just his on-field success, but also the profound cultural impact he had on the state.
The Don Legacy is a blend of archival footage, candid interviews, and dramatic re-creations. Produced by the award-winning team behind Last Chance U, the documentary features commentary from former players, coaching peers, sportscasters, and even political figures who knew Nehlen personally. Interviews include NFL stars like Major Harris, Jeff Hostetler, and Pacman Jones — all of whom credit Nehlen for instilling the discipline and values that shaped their careers.
The film takes a deep dive into key turning points: the hiring of Nehlen in the wake of a struggling program, the emotional highs of the 1988 national title chase, the heartbreak of bowl game losses, and the fierce loyalty of Mountaineer Nation. It also doesn’t shy away from the personal toll coaching took on Nehlen — from long hours away from family to the crushing weight of representing an entire state’s hopes every Saturday.
What elevates The Don Legacy is its attention to detail and rich storytelling. Viewers are given unprecedented access to Nehlen’s personal journals, coaching strategies, and never-before-seen locker room footage. His passion for education, love for his players, and old-school toughness are captured in vivid, cinematic fashion. From pre-game speeches to post-game tears, the documentary is a love letter to football purists and a tribute to a man who turned a regional team into a national name.
In a particularly moving sequence, the film highlights Nehlen’s 1993 decision to retire the flying WV logo into the team’s brand—a symbolic gesture of pride and unity. That legacy continues to shape the identity of WVU athletics today.
As college football continues to evolve in the era of NIL and conference realignment, Mountaineers Pride: “The Don Legacy” reminds fans of a time when loyalty, character, and hard work were the cornerstones of a successful program. For West Virginians, it’s more than just a documentary — it’s a celebration of a hero who gave them something to believe in.
This is not just a film. It’s a legacy preserved.
