After head coach Mike Leach died Monday evening, his gamers, former assistant coaches and opposition coaches all took to social media to reward what Leach meant to them, one among faculty soccer’s best innovators and most disrespectful figures. I did.
The 61-year-old Leach spent 21 seasons as Division I head coach at Texas Tech, Washington State and Mississippi State. He helped usher in a brand new period in faculty soccer with the “Air Raid” offense, posting 158- and 16-win seasons.
However greater than X and O, Leach is remembered most for her quirky persona, dry humor, and penchant for speaking about obscure matters, from sweet corn to weddings to Bigfoot.
Some notable reactions to Leach’s loss of life embrace:
USC coach Lincoln Riley, who coached underneath Leach at Texas Tech: “You’ll undoubtedly be missed, however your affect on so many individuals will proceed. Thanks for each second. You’ve modified my life and lots of others.”
Alabama coach Nick Saban, who coached in opposition to Leach within the SEC: “Mike Leach was a pal and we’re deeply saddened by his surprising passing. I’ve actually loved attending to know Mike over the previous few years. I had no concept the place our conversations had been going, however they all the time made me snicker. He was an aggressive innovator who all the time did issues his method and was revered. His groups had been properly coached and intensely tough to defend. They performed with composure and energy, which is a credit score to his management.”
Mississippi State quarterback Will Rogers, who threw for 34 touchdowns this season on Leach’s offense: “When Graham was in first grade [Harrell] threw a ball at [Michael] Crabtree vs. Texas. Thanks for giving me an opportunity on the age of 17. From Wazzu to Mississippi, I’ll always remember every part you taught me and the connection we shaped. I’ll see you once more sometime.”
Arizona Cardinals coach Kliff Kingsbury, who performed underneath Leach at Texas Tech, stated: “I would not be the place I’m immediately with out Mike Leach and every part he taught me concerning the recreation. Actually some of the modern minds in soccer, he was greater than only a coach. He was a mentor, pal, and some of the particular folks I’ve ever met. … Our sport is healthier with Mike Leach and far much less thrilling with out him.”
