John Madden

Though Madden's professional playing career was over, he did not leave football. He returned to California Polytechnic to earn a master's degree in education. It was at California Polytechnic that Madden met his future wife, Virginia Fields, who was studying for her master's degree and teaching school. They later married and had two sons, Mike and Joe. Madden was also employed as a physical education teacher in Santa Maria, California, and had begun a coaching career on the college level, becoming assistant coach at Allan Hancock Junior College.

In 1962, Madden was promoted to head coach at Hancock, spending two years there. His team posted a record of 12-6 during his tenure as head coach. In 1964, Madden moved on to San Diego State University, working as a defensive coordinator. He spent two years there, and the team had a record of 26-4.