Coaches
Coaches on Wazzu: a running collection of 2 stories we have gathered and hand-picked because they are worth your time. Every post here touches on coaches in some way — the news, the analysis, the deep dives, and the occasional surprise find. Washington State University (WSU) is a leading public land-grant research university in Pullman, WA, known for its strong programs in agriculture, environmental science,… New stories are added to this page as we find them, so check back if you want to keep up with what is happening around coaches, or subscribe to the RSS feed to get them as soon as they are published. Browse the collection below, or head back to the homepage to see everything Wazzu is covering right now.
Preparing for a Changing College Athletics Landscape
## Navigating the New Game: College Athletics in Transition College athletics are undergoing a seismic shift. From NIL deals to conference realignment, the landscape is evolving faster than ever before, leaving university leaders and fans scrambling to understand the implications. Veteran Karen Weaver, with a unique perspective as a former athlete, coach, and administrator, tackles this complexity head-on in her new book. It's a crucial read for college presidents seeking clarity and a roadmap for the future. Weaver’s work isn't just about the money—though that’s undeniably a factor. It’s about understanding the changing power dynamics, the impact on student-athletes, and the long-term sustainability of collegiate sports programs. The book identifies three key areas demanding immediate attention: athlete compensation and rights, the evolving role of the university, and the need for proactive governance to mitigate risk. Expect practical strategies and honest assessments, moving beyond the hype to address the core challenges. This period of rapid change also highlights broader issues within higher education. For instance, the complexities faced by first-generation students—as explored in Joshua Bay’s "The Hidden Curriculum First-Gen Students Face"—mirror the disorientation many are experiencing within the athletics world. Ultimately, navigating this new era requires adaptability, a commitment to student-athlete well-being, and a willingness to reimagine what college athletics can and should be.
WSU coaching legends share memories and a collective groan over modern college chaos
## Remembering the Sidelines: WSU Coaching Legends Reflect on Apple Cups and a Changing Game For nearly three decades, a select group of coaches witnessed the ebb and flow of the Apple Cup rivalry firsthand. Now, four former WSU sideline leaders – individuals who collectively guided the Cougars through 27 Apple Cup battles – are sharing their memories, insights, and a collective sigh about the evolution of college football. This exclusive piece offers a rare glimpse into inflection points in their careers, from defining victories to heartbreaking defeats, all framed by the unique intensity of the Washington-WSU rivalry. These veteran voices don't shy away from discussing the seismic shifts impacting the sport. They address the increasing pressures on athletes, the complexities of the transfer portal, and the ever-present influence of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals. While nostalgia for a simpler era is evident, their perspectives are grounded in a realistic understanding of the current landscape. Beyond the wins and losses, the coaches reflect on the enduring spirit of the Apple Cup – the passion of the fans, the pride of the players, and the significance of this historic rivalry. For deeper coverage of the most recent Apple Cup, check out our recap of Washington's narrow escape in "Apple Cup recap: Washington Huskies escape with win over WSU Cougars." Join us as these coaching legends share their stories and offer a poignant look back at a beloved tradition.