Larry Edward Siemering (August 29, 1912 – December 16, 1999) was an American football player and coach. He is most notable for his extensive career in college football, both as a player and a head coach, and for his single season as the head coach of the San Francisco 49ers in the National Football League (NFL).
Early Life and Playing Career
Born in San Francisco, California, Siemering attended San Francisco State University, where he excelled as a quarterback and halfback for the Gators football team. His impressive college career led to him being drafted by the Cleveland Rams in the 1937 NFL Draft. However, he did not play in the NFL, opting instead to begin a coaching career shortly after his playing days.
Coaching Career
Siemering's coaching career spanned several decades, primarily at the collegiate level, with a brief but notable stint in the NFL.
College Coaching: He began his coaching journey at his alma mater, San Francisco State, eventually becoming the head coach. He also held coaching positions at other prominent West Coast institutions, including St. Mary's College of California, the College of the Pacific (now University of the Pacific), and California State University, Fresno (Fresno State). Throughout his college coaching career, Siemering was known for his emphasis on strong fundamentals and strategic play.
San Francisco 49ers: In 1950, Siemering took on his highest-profile coaching role as the head coach of the San Francisco 49ers, an NFL team. He succeeded Buck Shaw, the team's inaugural coach. Siemering's tenure with the 49ers lasted only one season. Under his leadership, the team finished with a record of 3 wins and 9 losses. He was replaced by Dick Nolan for the 1951 season.
After his NFL experience, Siemering returned to coaching at the college level, continuing to contribute to the development of young athletes and the sport itself until his retirement.
Later Life
Larry Siemering passed away on December 16, 1999, in San Mateo, California, at the age of 87. He left behind a legacy as a dedicated football figure who impacted numerous players and programs throughout his long career.