Warren Beson came to Carleton in 1956 after leading Edina High School to the legendary state championship. He quickly turned the Knights’ fortunes around in three-plus seasons before dying of a heart attack midway through the 1959 season. Despite his short tenure he left a lasting impression on colleagues and students.
According to one of his former players, John Larson ’60, Beson “exhibited… extraordinary characteristics. He brought respectability and credibility to the sports aspect at Carleton and to the entire Carleton community.”
Beson reportedly received opportunities to coach larger and more successful programs, but decided to remain at Carleton. He amassed a 21-7-2 mark, including a 1956 Midwest Conference tri-championship for the Knights. During his four-season tenure, Carleton outscored the opposition 632-397 and is one of only three Carleton football coaches to coach at least three seasons and win at least 70 percent of their games.
The Warren L. Beson Memorial Award is given to a senior male athlete for athletic and academic excellence who has won one or more awards (letters) in any sport and has a high scholastic average. This award was established by his family in memory of Professor Beson, Carleton College Head Coach of Football from 1956-59.
This award will be presented at the Annual Knights Awards Banquet.