John McKenna joined the VMI football coaching staff in 1952 and became head coach in 1953.
In 13 seasons, from 1953-65, he guided the Keydets to four Southern Conference championships, five state championships and six straight winning seasons (1957-62). These years included the nationally-ranked, undefeated team of 1957 and a winning streak of 18 games without a loss. McKenna was Southern Conference Coach of the Year in 1957 and 1959.
He was made an Honorary Alumnus of VMI and in 1977 received a special citation of the VMI Sports Hall of Fame.
The Coach John McKenna Scholarship was established in 1978 by his fellow football players and assistant coaches to provide assistance to upperclass football players who best exemplify the traits Coach McKenna demanded of his players.
