THE GLENN ROBINSON AWARD

Randolph-Macon's Josh Merkel is the recipient of the 2021 Glenn Robinson award, which is presented annually to the top Division III coach.

March 31, 2021

THE 2021 AWARD

BOSTON, MA -- Randolph Macon head coach Josh Merkel is the recipient of the 2021 Glenn Robinson award.

Merkel led Randolph-Macon to a 12-0 record and the Yellow Jackets finished the season ranked No. 1 in Division III Top 25. Merkel’s team was in the conference championship game for the third consecutive season and won consecutive titles for the first time since 1990 and 1991, its first two years in the ODAC.

“He doesn’t seek attention. Josh Merkel just wins,” said Joe Dwyer President of CollegeInsider.com. “Coach Merkel did another outstanding job this season. He’s one of the best coaches that most fans never heard of.”

Randolph-Macon closed out the season with a convincing 69-55 win over No. 2 ranked and undefeated Trine. The Yellow Jackets held Trine to its lowest point total of the season, while setting a program record with its 33rd consecutive home victory. It is the longest current streak in Division III.

The Glenn Robinson Award, which is presented annually to the top Division III basketball coach, is named in honor of the Franklin & Marshall head coach.

The winningest coach in Division III history, Robinson won his 900th game on Jan. 9, 2016. He’s the second Division III coach to spend 1,000 games on the sidelines. He’s directed the Diplomats to 23 NCAA tournament appearances, 42 tournament victories, 16 trips to the Sweet 16 and Final Four visits in 1979, 1991, 1996, 2000 and 2009.

Even more remarkable, Franklin & Marshall was 22-43 in his first three seasons and in the last 45 years all but three players have earned their degree.