Heartwarming Milestone: West Virginia Mountaineers Football Head Coach Celebrates 28 Years of Love and Devotion with His Beautiful Wife Rita Setliff, Honoring a Remarkable Journey of Marriage, Partnership, and Unwavering Support Both On and Off the Gridiron
For West Virginia Mountaineers head coach, the football field may be a stage for strategy, competition, and leadership, but the true foundation of his life lies at home with his beloved wife, Rita Setliff. This year, the couple celebrates 28 years of marriage, a milestone that reflects their enduring love, partnership, and mutual dedication through life’s triumphs and challenges.
Their marriage is a testament to resilience, faith, and shared purpose—a bond that has weathered the ups and downs of a demanding career in college football while providing the strength and stability needed to thrive both on and off the gridiron. As they celebrate nearly three decades of wedded bliss, let’s take a closer look at their remarkable journey together and the inspiring love story that continues to captivate those around them.
From the Beginning: A Love That Endures
The story of the coach and Rita Setliff began long before the bright lights of college football. The two met in their early years and quickly discovered a connection built on shared values and a deep understanding of each other’s aspirations. Rita, known for her warm personality and unwavering support, became an anchor for her future husband as he pursued his dreams of coaching at the highest level.
“Rita has been my biggest supporter from the very beginning,” the coach often says. “She believed in me when the path wasn’t clear, and her love gave me the confidence to chase my dreams.”
For Rita, the connection was equally profound. “What I saw in him wasn’t just his ambition but his heart,” she once shared. “I knew he was going to do great things, but more than that, I knew he was a person I could build a life with.”
Building a Life Together
The couple married 28 years ago, embarking on a journey that would test their resilience and strengthen their bond. From the early days of coaching positions at smaller programs to the pressures of leading the West Virginia Mountaineers, Rita has been a constant source of stability and encouragement.
Their life together has been a balancing act, with Rita often taking on the role of managing the household and raising their children while her husband devoted long hours to his career. Despite the challenges, the couple has always prioritized their relationship, making time for each other and cherishing the moments that matter most.
“Marriage is about teamwork,” the coach has said. “Just like in football, it’s not about individual success—it’s about what you can accomplish together. Rita and I have always been a team, and everything I’ve achieved is because of her support.”
The Role of a Coach’s Wife: Rita’s Strength Behind the Scenes
Being the wife of a college football coach is no easy task. The long hours, frequent travel, and intense pressure that come with the job can be challenging for any family. Yet, Rita has embraced her role with grace and strength, becoming a pillar of support not just for her husband but also for the entire Mountaineers community.
Rita’s involvement extends beyond her role as a wife and mother. She has become a beloved figure within the program, known for her kindness, approachability, and genuine care for players and their families. From organizing team events to offering words of encouragement during tough times, Rita’s presence has made a lasting impact on the program.
“Rita is the heart of our family and, in many ways, the heart of this team,” her husband said during a recent interview. “She makes everyone feel welcome and valued, and her influence goes far beyond what people see on the surface.”
A Marriage Rooted in Faith and Values
At the core of their relationship is a shared faith and a commitment to living by their values. The couple often credits their strong spiritual foundation as the key to their enduring marriage. Through the highs and lows of life, their faith has provided them with guidance, strength, and a sense of purpose.
“Faith is the glue that holds everything together,” Rita once said. “It’s what keeps us grounded and reminds us of what’s truly important.”
Their faith has also influenced their approach to parenting and their interactions with the broader Mountaineers family. By leading with integrity and compassion, the couple has set an example for others to follow, both within the program and beyond.
Celebrating 28 Years of Love and Partnership
As they celebrate their 28th wedding anniversary, the coach and Rita are taking the opportunity to reflect on the journey that has brought them to this point. For them, the milestone is not just a celebration of time but a testament to the love, dedication, and teamwork that have defined their marriage.
“Every year is a blessing, but this one feels extra special,” the coach said. “To look back on 28 years and see everything we’ve built together—it’s humbling and inspiring. Rita has been my partner in every sense of the word, and I’m so grateful for her love and support.”
Rita echoed his sentiments, expressing her gratitude for the life they’ve built. “It’s been an incredible journey, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything,” she said. “I’m so proud of the man he is, the family we’ve raised, and the memories we’ve created together. Here’s to many more years of love and adventure.”
Lessons from the Venables’ Marriage
The love story of the coach and Rita offers valuable lessons for anyone navigating the complexities of marriage, family, and career. Their journey demonstrates the importance of:
- Teamwork: Just like in football, success in marriage requires collaboration, communication, and a shared commitment to common goals.
- Support: Whether through encouragement, understanding, or simply being present, showing up for your partner is essential to building a strong foundation.
- Faith: A spiritual foundation can provide guidance and strength during challenging times.
- Balance: Prioritizing family and cherishing moments together helps maintain perspective and connection.
- Gratitude: Taking time to appreciate your partner and celebrate milestones is key to sustaining a loving and fulfilling relationship.
The Future: Looking Ahead Together
As the coach continues to lead the Mountaineers, he does so with Rita by his side, providing unwavering support and inspiration. Together, they remain a shining example of what it means to build a life rooted in love, partnership, and shared purpose.
With nearly three decades of marriage behind them, the couple looks forward to the years ahead, embracing new challenges and opportunities while continuing to prioritize what matters most: their faith, their family, and their love for one another.
In the words of one fan, “Their relationship is as strong as their commitment to the Mountaineers, and that’s what makes them so special. They’re not just leaders—they’re role models for all of us.”
Here’s to 28 years of love, devotion, and partnership—and many more to come for the coach and his beautiful wife, Rita Setliff.
