TROY—Larry Blakeney, who has led and advised Troy University football players for almost 20 years, shared life lessons with the members of the fall graduating class Friday in Troy.

Chancellor Jack Hawkins, Jr. presented diplomas to more than 350 students from 15 U.S. states and 17 nations at the ceremony held in Sartain Hall. Blakeney, who has coached more seasons and won more games than any football coach in Troy University history, told the graduates that teamwork is a key to success. He talked about growing up in Gordo, a small Pickens County town.

“We often talked about being raised by the community. . . we benefited greatly from all those who affected our lives,” Blakeney said, including teachers, clergy, relatives and neighbors.

The TROY coach urged the graduates to find mentors who will help them succeed.

“As you ascend personally and professionally through your lifetime and careers, you will come in contact along the way with many people who will help you succeed, Blakeney said. “Treat them well, remember them and thank them every chance you get. Your payback will be to do the same for others.”

Coach Blakeney is in his 19th season as head coach at TROY, making him one of the longest-serving college head coaches at the same school. Only Joe Paterno (Penn State), Bobby Bowden (Florida State) and Frank Beamer (Virginia Tech) outdistance Coach Blakeney, who is ranked fourth in total of wins among Alabama football coaches with a record of 153-76-1 at TROY.