Washington State pays tribute to longtime coach Mike Leach after his passing
Washington State reached new heights under coach Mike Leach. Coaching the Cougars from 2012 to 2019, Leach compiled an overall record of 55-47, going an even 36-36 in Pac-12 play.
The 2018 season was truly special, as Leach guided the Cougars to an 11-2 final record — the only 11-win season in program history. The Cougars won the Alamo Bowl that year.
On Monday night, Leach sadly passed away at the age of 61 due to complications from a heart condition. He was currently serving as the head coach at Mississippi State.
On Tuesday morning, the Cougars paid tribute to their late former head coach:
We are who we are because of you, Coach 🏴☠️
We mourn the passing of a true 𝐋𝐄𝐆𝐄𝐍𝐃. Words can’t even begin to describe the impact you have left on this world. We loved every minute and every memory you have imprinted into this program. Forever a Coug. #SwingYourSword pic.twitter.com/WhsuFAXo3Y
— Washington State Football (@WSUCougarFB) December 13, 2022
AD Pat Chun also released a statement regarding Leach:
A statement from our athletic director @pat_chun regarding Coach Mike Leach. pic.twitter.com/BCD1rFbapN
— Washington State Athletics (@WSUCougars) December 13, 2022
The Washington State social media team also paid tribute with a great video:
🕊️ 𝐌𝐈𝐊𝐄 𝐋𝐄𝐀𝐂𝐇 𝟏𝟗𝟔𝟏-𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟐 🕊️#SwingYourSword pic.twitter.com/Bc5R6mSMay
— Washington State Football (@WSUCougarFB) December 13, 2022
Leach coached at Texas Tech, Washington State and Mississippi State, amassing a 158-107 overall record. He was an offensive innovator, with his “Air Raid” system forever changing the game of college football.
