Wayne Woodrow Hayes was introduced as Ohio State's 19th head coach on Feb. 18, 1951. There were questions about his hiring and many believed his tenure would be short.
Hayes was born on Valentine's Day 1913 in Clifton, Ohio and played high school football at Newcomerstown High School. Upon graduation, Hayes took his talents to Denison University where he played tackle and served as team captain.
Hayes started his head coaching career at New Philadelphia High School and compiled an 18–11–1 record over three seasons. In 1941, he left coaching to enlist in the Navy.